The Pepper Party Picks the Perfect Pet

Gr 1–3—A raucous family of nine seeks the right pet for their family in this new chapter book series for younger readers. The Pepper family includes two parents, a grandparent, and six children, but no pets—until daughter Annie Pepper meets Azzie, a Chihuahua waiting to be adopted from a local animal shelter. Annie's attempt to get permission to bring Azzie home is successful, until Annie realizes permission doesn't mean she gets to choose the pet. Chaos ensues as other family members bring home a variety of possible pets, from a camera-ready tarantula to a snuggly pink pig, all with disastrous results. Author and illustrator Cooper pulls readers into the dizzying world of the Pepper family with silly scenarios. Detailed illustrations establish the frenetic pace of the Pepper household and bring each family member to life. The story loses ground when Cooper attempts humorous references aimed at adults: a bird named Elvis has an elaborate internal monologue loaded with Elvis Presley references; the animal shelter owner is best known for discovering a famous movie director whose name sounds remarkably like his real-life counterpart. These moments might entertain a caregiver reading aloud, but actual young readers may lose interest.