Stink and the Hairy Scary Spider

K-Gr 3–Stink returns in a creepy, crawly tarantula tale. One day while out in the yard, Stink is startled by a gigantic, menacing, pink-toed spider. Stink immediately runs inside. At first his family members do not believe him—whoever heard of a spider with pink toes? Luckily Stink’s friend Webster, a spider expert, is available for consultation. Realizing that the pink-toed spider must be an escaped tarantula embarking on a wild adventure, the pair endeavor to overcome Stink’s arachnophobia and stage a daring spider rescue. Stink is a completely endearing character. Many readers will relate to his calculation that slugs, bugs, and worms are all acceptable creatures for a yard, but spiders are much too creepy. Brave Stink is determined to overcome his fear of spiders. The accessible text is perfect for young readers and uses frequently repeated words and phrases. Short chapters delineate the story and provide an opportunity for Reynolds to showcase his marvelous and goofy illustrations.