I love being a kids’ bookseller in Oz. I love writing for kids. I have been taking care of, teaching, camp counseling and after school coordinating kids for over 17 years, so I have read a lot of books for kids. As we kick off our four-day Once Upon A Fall Children’s Book Festival (be sure to join us for the Storybook Ball!), I want to share some children’s books I particularly enjoy, in addition to the books we will be promoting by our wonderful visiting authors.

Books like Bink and Gollie. I love, love, LOVE Bink and Gollie. These books, written by Newbery medalist Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee, are the first things that come to mind when asked about great first chapter books for 5-7 year olds. But honestly, I’ve seen kids as young as three and old as twelve laughing uproariously at Bink and Gollie’s perfect, sparse slapstick dialogue and friendship dynamics.

Two best friends who are total opposites, practical, sardonic Gollie contrasts hilariously with impetuous, enthusiastic Bink. In the first book, Bink and Gollie have differences of opinion over goldfish ownership, Andes mountain climbing and, in my favorite episode, which socks to wear. As a girl who loves my rainbow collection of tights (see photo of my tights drawer below!), I sympathize with Bink’s love of rainbow socks.

“Bink, said Gollie. “The brightness of those socks pains me. I beg you not to purchase them.”

“I can’t wait to put them on,” said Bink. […]

“I love socks,” said Bink.

“Some socks are more lovable than others,” said Gollie.

And so it continues throughout their adventures. In the newest installment, Two for One, Bink and Gollie spend a day at the state fair with their share of mishaps and bad luck. But a trip to see the fortune teller at day’s end reminds them of what they’ve always known–bad luck comes and goes, but true friends are forever.

Though they aren’t the first odd couple of chapter books to be written, in my opinion, they are the most perfect. The stories have just the right touch of silliness and whimsy, originality and excellent writing, that will make kids pick them up again and again. Complete with artwork whimsically created by the talented Tony Fucile, Bink and Gollie are the perfect books for the new reader in your life.

by Mandy

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