Harry the Explorer

The trouble-making intergalactic cat hero of Harry and the Chicken returns in more hair-raising adventures that are hard to explain to his new owner's parents.

Grade 2-4 --Harry, the magical, egotistical cat from another planet who burst upon the scene in Harry and Chicken (Candlewick, 1992), returns in this sequel. Chicken (who is never called Sara Jane) is feeling lonely since her best friend moved away. She does not act on her own behalf, so Harry arranges an adventure for them on a rainy London day. The backyard suddenly resembles the lake in the jigsaw puzzle she's been working, and they row precariously across it to meet a variety of characters who turn out to be neighbors. Harry is a creature to be reckoned with, an obstreperous activist who does not like to be bored. Chicken is a good match for him, as she counters his outrageousness with sarcastic but friendly humor. The sketchy, cartoon drawings contribute to the slapdash atmosphere of this beginning science-fantasy chapter book about a couple of unlikely friends. --Carolyn Jenks, formerly at Oyster River Elementary School, Durham, NH
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.