Adriana Brad Schanen

I wish this wasn't the last Quinny & Hopper book, but since this one was published five years ago, I guess Ms. Schanen has concluded the series.
Quinny (the ultimate extrovert) and Hopper (the ultimate introvert) are best friends in third grade. In this book, like the previous two, a lot of serious subjects are approached within an extremely light-hearted, fun book. In Smart Cookies, the topics covered include, but are not limited to: friendship, family, traditions, compromise, loyalty, kindness, learning styles, seeing things through another person's eyes, and gratitude.
Although Quinny and Hopper are in 3rd grade, the book is probably better suited as a read-alone book for 5th or 6th graders. Third grade, would be a good read aloud book though.… (altro)

Book 2 in the Quinny and Hopper series. Quinny is the extraordinarily extroverted girl whose best friend is Hopper, an extraordinarily introverted boy. In alternating first person narrations, they tell the tale of Hopper's tonsillectomy, Quinny's battle with the evil substitute teacher, and more. The book delves into what it really means to be a good friend; being honest when it's hard to; and being afraid of something inevitable, like a tonsillectomy. Still, this is mostly a lighthearted, funny book for upper elementary school kids. Probably a good read aloud even for second graders.… (altro)

With Quinny & Hopper, Adriana Brad Schanen skillfully draws readers into the minds of two very different kids. Alternating the book's point-of-view from chapter to chapter between Quinny, a loud and rambunctious girl, and Hopper, a quiet and withdrawn boy, Schanen enables readers to fully understand both characters equally and to empathize with them in turn.

The story celebrates being a kid and doing what makes you happy instead of what other people think you should do. At times, Quinny and Hopper's families are overly frustrating, but in general the story is touching and fun. And it's a book that can appeal to both genders, which is always something to appreciate. (It actually took me several pages before I figured out that Quinny is the girl.)

Best of all, though, are Greg Swearingen's wonderful illustrations. They add a lovely visual element--and a deeper appreciation of Hopper's artistic ability--without overwhelming the text or making the book feel like a picture book.

Note: I received a digital galley of this book through NetGalley.… (altro)