Two of a Kind

MEAN GIRLS, the elementary school version. Jacqui Robbins proved in THE NEW GIRL... AND ME that her understanding of classroom dynamics is spot-on, and in her new book, TWO OF A KIND, she does it again. A story that is sweet, and true, and a must-have for any school library or classroom collection.

It's hard to capture childhood in a few hundred words. And to do it in a way that will make sense to a 5 year old. But the author manages it perfectly! And I love Matt Phelan's drawings.

This is a wonderful story about two different friendships. Kayla and Melanie, whisper a lot and are only nice to each other. Julisa and Anna will let anyone play with them."Kayla and Melanie are two of a kind. That's what Kayla and Melanie say. Even our teacher, Ms. Becky, says it sometimes, like when Kayla and Melanie beg to be partners at work time."Julisa and I like to be partners too, but nobody calls us two of a kind. Ms. Becky does say, "Julisa, and Anna, can you help?" a lot. And we do."In science class Kayla and Melanie make fun of Julisa's glasses, Anna pretends not to notice. Anna is teamed up with Melanie for the science experiment. Melanie is impressed with Anna's rainbow. Anna can now hang out with Melanie and Kayla.I loved Two of a Kind. It's another great picture book featuring characters of color that has nothing to do with race. Its simply a story of a girl who decide if she likes spending time with the popular girls or her best friend. Julisa's voice is very clear and the dilemma well defined.Phelan's illustrations are lovely and a perfect fit. I loved that the illustrator depicts Kayla and Melanie wearing matching outfits. He captures the emotions on everyone face. One any given page without reading the text, it's easy to tell what a character's feeling. Ages 5up

This is a wonderful book, beautifully written and illustrated. I read it tonight with my 7 year old son, 5 year old daughter, and 3 year old daughter. They were rapt the entire time.It is a touching story of the importance of being true to oneself and one's friends, even when the cool kids make it hard. My kids and I had a really nice conversation afterwards, about "mean girls" and the importance of standing up for one's friends. They were all unanimous that they wanted to be like the girls with glasses -- that fun and laughter were better than snideness. Nicely done.

I picked up this book for my daughter who is 8. She loves this book! It's one that she goes to again and again and wants other books by this author. There is a strong message here but delivered in a way that is not preachy. My daughter and I both enjoy the art as well. One of those rare books enjoyed by both myself and my young one.

A touching blend of advice and morals that children of all ages need. Very charming, indeed.