A TRIP AROUND THE SUN

Change is in the air for Haylee and Comet.

Three heartwarming tales highlight how change can be “hard,” “messy,” or even “FAST.” After mistaking a caterpillar for a tiny comet, Comet (an actual comet) learns about metamorphosis in “The Cocoon.” The discussion broadens to change in general, prompting Comet to ask human pal Haylee whether both of them will change as well. They continue to observe the caterpillar (à la “slow TV”) until she eventually morphs into a luna moth. In “Snow Cone,” a heat wave prompts the pair to seek out the icy treats to cool off. Along the way, they meet a litter of kittens. One of these kittens follows them to the snow cone cart. In “Growing Up,” Haylee outgrows a pair of roller skates, and Comet wonders if they’re growing, too. They both go to the measuring wall to take stock. Haylee has grown 2 inches. Comet is disappointed to still be the same—at least on the outside. Identical in tone to predecessor Haylee and Comet (2021), this sequel effectively melds Frog and Toad–esque truisms about friendship with brilliant full-color art. Each story ends with a coda that offers an element of nonfiction or gives the duo a chance to reflect. The fairly predictable block-panel format has at most six panels per page. Haylee has pale skin; a secondary human character has brown skin. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A bright sequel.