Explorer Extraordinaire!

August 1, 2009
K-Gr 3-Nancy returns with all of the sophistication, aplomb, and humor she displayed in her previous books. She and her best friend, Bree, have created an exclusive club (they are the sole members) for their nature studies. The Explorers Extraordinaire have official membership certificates, a dress code, and, most importantly, a clubhouse. Their mission is to search for bugs, birds, and leaves in their backyards and record what they find in their notebooks. Back in their clubhouse, the explorers do additional research to learn more about their discoveries. When younger siblings ask to join the club, they are rejected for lack of maturity. After finding a baby bird that has fallen from his nest, the junior explorers are allowed to join. This slim title is packed with a lot of information about nature, but the vocabulary makes it too challenging for beginning readers. That aside, it is one of Nancy's most captivating adventures. The pages overflow with her personality and style. Text and illustrations pull together to show readers what a smart and complex character she is. A sure winner for eager young explorers."Mary Hazelton, Elementary Schools in Warren & Waldoboro, ME"

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2009
Fancy Nancy and her friend Bree start a nature club. Nancy shares pertinent rules, craft ideas, and gear tips ("Just because you're exploring doesn't mean you can't be fancy!"). The mini-diva looks like a fish out of water in this un-Nancy-like milieu, but fans will accept her in any context. Occasional photos of nature's creatures crowd Glasser's all-frills art.

(Copyright 2009 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)