Review: Say Hello to Zorro! by Carter Goodrich

Say Hello to Zorro!
Carter Goodrich
Simon & Schuster
ISBN: 978146938934
Grades K-2
In Stores

Just like adults, kids are creatures of habit. Ask a substitute teacher what happens when they deviate from the normal schedule with a classroom full of first graders. Sticking to a routine is great, but being flexible is also important. This must be why the concept of the New Kid on the Block Upsetting the Status Quo has become such a reoccurring concept (think “new sibling” and “new kid in school” books). Say Hello to Zorro! joins this crowded group, yet manages to stand out thanks to humor and a deft artistic touch.

Mister Bud has a schedule. It is unwavering. The lone dog in the house, Bud goes about his routine of eating, napping, and television watching with no interruptions. One day, the diminuative Zorro arrives on the scene and immediately changes the mood of relaxation to one of tension. The pair eventually realize one important thing – their schedules match. Not only does this make their co-habitation tolerable, they realize that the daily routine is even better with a companion.

Watercolor spot illustrations set on large expanses of white keep the focus on our canine characters. The perspective is at a dog’s level, with humans only appearing in the form of arms and legs reaching or standing in the frame. It’s a smaller world kids can relate to.

Fear of the unknown, compromise, friendship – Say Hello to Zorro! touches on all of these things. Kids will just be having too much fun to worry about that stuff.

Review copy from publisher

Also reviewed by Where the Best Books Are, Confessions of a Bookaholic, Kiss the Book.

Find this book at your local library with WorldCat.