MONTI AND LEO

A theft rouses unfair suspicions among the residents of Pocketville.

Monti the mole and Leo the lizard meet at the library to take in a figurine display on loan from Mrs. Sheep. Monti loves collections—from Leo’s rocks to Carl the librarian’s assortment of objects that patrons have left behind in library books—and hopes to start his own one day. Then Mrs. Sheep’s favorite figurine disappears; in a panic, she faints, then starts leveling accusations against Monti. Others begin to suspect him, too. Leo and their avian pal Harriet come to the defense of a visibly upset Monti and comfort him over tea. Leo sorts out his own doubts about Monti’s innocence and does some detective work. Sharp-eyed readers may deduce the culprit before he does. The story’s emergent lessons about apologizing and making amends lead recent transplant Leo to recall his time outside Pocketville: “Wherever I’ve been, there are people like Mrs. Sheep. Loud and selfish people…But there are also good people!” Relying on simple linework and muted tones, Kantorovitz depicts an adorably anthropomorphized cast. The efficient use of two to five rectangular panels per page results in a smooth, clear reading experience. An epilogue on a resting rock by the river will be a familiar sight to series readers, one among many cozy comforts this book has to offer.

A winning celebration of collectors and their collections, and of friends to share them with.