The Moonlight Meeting (Nocturnals Grow & Read Level 2)

First in a spin-off series of the Nocturnals middle grade novels, this banter-filled early reader describes the initial meeting between shy Tobin the pangolin, brash Bismark the sugar glider, and kindhearted Dawn the fox. An argument over ownership of a pomelo that Tobin discovers while snuffling around at night brings the three creatures together, and the pared-down narration and dialogue quickly establish their personalities, as does Singleton's cartoon artwork, which shows the characters striking expressive poses midconflict. The plot is relatively scant--it takes the animals a while just to share their names with each other, let alone do much else--but Hecht and Dowling successfully set the stage for more adventurous outings down the road. Closing notes provide additional details about the animals (and explain what a pomelo is). Ages 5-7. (Sept.)

"Physical characteristics, personality quirks, and the beginnings of their mutual trust and friendship are aptly portrayed through both words and pictures. A few 'Nocturnals Fun Facts' at the end should help with any factual queries. Whether listening, reading along, or launching individual attempts, satisfied readers will be ready and waiting for the next installment." —Booklist

"An entertaining story of friendship and sharing, and educates us about those who are different from us." —Story Monsters Inc.

"The Moonlight Meeting is cute and the whimsical illustrations by Waymond Singleton should help budding readers follow along and be encouraged to learn new words as they turn pages. Fun facts at the end should satisfy the interest of kids who are drawn to nonfiction. I highly recommend The Moonlight Meeting for readers aged 6 to 8 and their parents." —Mother Daughter Book Club.

"It's whimsical and funny, and kids will laugh at the animals' bickering — while also learning important lessons about friendship, teamwork and problem-solving" —SheKnows.com

"They are very well written leaving the reader so curious and really wanting to know the end result. To have book 2 and 3 waiting will encourage this excitement and keep them reading" —Parenting Healthy

"I like this series because it doesn't have the usual dogs or cats in it. There's a pangolin, a sugar glider, and a fox. Singleton's illustrations are great and give you a good idea of what the real animal looks like. This was a delightful read with great illustrations. The story will make your young ones smile and they'll learn more about the animals with the bonus facts at the end." —The Book Faerie