The Jellybeans and the Big Camp Kickoff

K-Gr 2—The four animal friends introduced in The Jellybeans and the Big Dance (2008) and The Jellybeans and the Big Book Bonanza (2010, both Abrams) set off for Camp Pook-A-Wow. Once there, Emily enjoys a dance class, Bitsy makes crafts, and Anna reads books about nature. However, Nicole loves soccer, and even though there are plenty of sports at the camp, her favorite is not one of them. She tries various alternatives but does not like them. She is sad until her friends suggest that they start a team. The simple, direct plot allows children to become involved as the characters solve the problem. Nicole teaches the girls soccer skills, Anna reads the rule book, Bitsy makes the uniforms, and Emily plays goalie and leaps like a dancer. Then they schedule a game with a neighboring camp. The cartoon artwork captures the mood of the story as the youngsters support one another. The soft, watercolor illustrations reinforce their delightful antics as they enjoy their camp experience.—Margaret R. Tassia, Millersville University, PA