Kondo & Kezumi Reach Bell Bottom (Kondo & Kezumi #2)

The pacing pulls readers along like a swift current, and worldbuilding is playful and unexpected, dialing up the imagination and creating a new dimension for this tried-and-true friendship tale. A gently whimsical rumination about compromise and friendship. 

Gr 1-3--Kondo and Kezumi are best friends and love to go on adventures. However, they don't always agree on their destination. A lover of food, Kondo wants to visit Spaghetti Island. Kezumi wants to visit every location, island or otherwise. When a storm causes them to shipwreck on an unknown island, the two argue, separate, and get lost. Will the friends find their way back to each other and make up? Will they figure out a way home? And will Kondo ever get to see Spaghetti Island? Tsurumi's full-page vivid illustrations do a great job of bringing the story to life. The characters are likable and engaging. The plot is fairly well developed, but simple enough for young chapter book readers to follow. A surprise twist at the end will delight and amuse kids. VERDICT Those who enjoy stories about adventure, fantasy, humor, and friendship will appreciate this sequel. Recommended for early chapter book collections.--Kira Moody, Salt Lake County Lib. Svcs.