Sylvia Jean, Scout Supreme
From the Sylvia Jean series, this picture book reveals that the main character is an avid Pig Scout. When the troop leader challenges her scouts to earn the Good-Deed Badge, Sylvia Jean reacts with overenthusiasm. She attempts to help a neighbor with a twisted ankle, but her visit ends in catastrophe (and a doctor’s order to stay away). Still, coming up with a sneaky strategy, she helps while wearing disguises, an idea that suits her character as developed in Sylvia Jean, Drama Queen (2005). Well-chosen words and expressive pictures work together to tell this comical story seamlessly. A childlike crowd-pleaser. Preschool-Grade 2. --Carolyn Phelan