July 21, 2023
PreS-Gr 2-Five friends dress up and go trick-or-treating in this playful rhyming story that embraces the fun of Halloween. Wearing a range of costumes, including a ghost, a ballerina, a pumpkin, an astronaut, and the President, the group goes from door to door, greeted by a different person every time. Repetitive phrases and catchy rhymes make this a good interactive read-aloud choice. "Trick-or-treat!"/ "Oh, hello! Tell me who you are!"/ "We are friends who pretend./ I'm a ballet star!" Spreads alternate between a trick-or-treat stop and the friends on the move to the next home, enjoying each other's company. There are no scares here, just excitement. The illustrations focus on a lively night in the life of five brown-skinned children, and Hodge shows a range of complexions and hair textures; one child wears a hijab. VERDICT An inclusive book that focuses on fun, this is a delightful seasonal purchase.-Rosemary Kiladitis
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