The Horn Book Guide

EASY READERS

McMullan, Kate

Pearl and Wagner: Three Secrets

48 pp. | Dial | May, 2004 | Trade ISBN 0-8037-2574-4 $$14.99

(2) K-3 Illustrated by R. W. Alley. Best friends Pearl (a rabbit) and Wagner (a mouse) help each other overcome a fear of roller coasters in their second easy reader. McMullan's text (especially the dialogue) is lively, funny, and at times touching; children will be drawn in by the amusement-park setting and the familiar situations and feelings. Alley's lighthearted illustrations skillfully telegraph emotions through facial expression, a boon for beginning readers.

Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2004