In the fourth volume in this delightful early reader series, friends Whale and Snail (who happens to use they/them pronouns) are seeking rocks to give Quail for her birthday. When Whale and Snail both choose the same rock, however, tempers flare and voices get raised. Quail really wants is the kindness of being quiet while she is reading. Whale and Snail are mad at each other for their actions, but soon work through things and apologize to each other–then come up with a creative birthday gift involving rocks, kindness, and reading!
I particularly appreciate that Whale and Snail resolve their differences themselves, an important skill for young people to learn. The sentences may be simple, but the zippy dialogue from author Erica Perl, the adorable illustrations from Sam Ailey, and the light message about friendships and forgiveness set this above many early reader titles, making it a recommended read.
Whale and the Birthday Rocks is a “Level 2” early reader, with slightly longer sentences but no chapters.
