They say good things come in threes, the third time is the charm, etc, etc. Basically three is the luckiest, most magical of numbers. I hope this is the case for these three series, all near and dear to my heart, which happen to have third installments out this fall. These three series walk to the line between chapter books and true middle grade, but I think you’ll find they can be enjoyed by ALL ages, including adult women who are not ashamed to be seen laughing on the subway reading a gloriously glittery Hamster Princess book. But I digress…
Magical Animal Adoption Agency #3: The Missing Magic
For those who are magically inclined, look no further than The Magical Animal Adoption Agency series by Canadian author (and in the interests of full disclosure, good pal) Kallie George. With the latest installment in the Harry Potter movie franchise featuring fantastical beasts a-plenty, magical creatures have never been more popular. This gentle series is perfect for younger readers who prefer their magical creatures cute rather than scary. In this third volume Clover is learning to share the spotlight with Oliver, a bit of a know-it-all who shows up at the agency and begins to encroach on her territory. Clover’s insecurities and jealousies are put to the test when Mr. Jams is called away and she must work with Oliver to solve the mystery of the missing magic.
Hamster Princess #3: Ratpunzel
For those who like their fairytales mixed up, starring rodents, and decidedly funny, look no further than Ursula Vernon’s Hamster Princess series. This time our intrepid, fraction-loving hamster is escaping her mundane duties princess-ing to help Wilbur recover a stolen hydra egg, leading them to the mysterious Ratpunzel and her weird mother figure who reads her sad stories in order to collect her tears. It isn’t necessary to read these books in sequence, but you will want to read them all immediately if this is your first foray into Harriet’s world. This is not a graphic novel but does have a number of spot illustrations and fantastic one-liners.
Dory Fantasmagory #3: Dory Dory Black Sheep
For those who prefer contemporary realism (with a very strong dose of imagination), look no further than my favourite rascal, Dory Fantasmagory. Dory lives in two worlds, her real world and her imaginary world, and the two collide in hilarious ways. Abby Hanlon’s first person narration is reminiscent of Junie B Jones or Clementine in its potent sense of character and authenticity. Dory talks and feels like a six-year-old. Take, for example, this perfect description of what happens when she sees her best friend Rosabelle: “We take turns picking each other up. It’s like hugging, but more dangerous.” In an excellent example of Knowing Your Audience, in this third adventure, Dory is struggling with her reading. This series is heavily illustrated, with most spreads featuring at least one spot illustration. Perfect series for transitional readers.
Vikki VanSickle 