Benny and Penny in Just Pretend: Toon Books Level 2

by Geoffrey Hayes

Book Overview

How can Benny pretend to be a brave pirate when his pesky little sister, Penny, wants to tag along and is always asking for a hug? He tries to lose her, but when he does, he starts to feel a little lost himself. Penny proves her bravery, saves Benny from a bug, and gets the hug she wants.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0979923808
• ISBN13: 9780979923807
• Release Date: April 2008
• Publisher: Toon Books
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.52 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 6.3" x 9.2"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

Charming narrative with a subtle message

I've been a fan of Geoffrey Hayes' books since "Bear By Himself". I've given them regularly as gifts and enjoyed reading them to my nieces, who are now reading them to their children. The narratives are always gentle, but involving, with just enough excitement to keep older children engaged. The whimsical drawings are full of colorful detail and hold up to repeated viewing. (Close scrutiny of the pictures and posters hanging on various walls can be fun for even an adult!) "Benny & Penny" might prove to be particularly useful in those families with sibling issues, as it deftly shatters boy/girl stereotypes and demonstrates the benefits of cooperation and good will. Highly recommended.

Excellent introduction to comics for young children

I just used this book for my student this afternoon and it was a great decision. He's 4 years old and was able to read most of the words by himself. He seemed a bit perplexed about the idea of comics (i.e., structure, the amount of visuals, etc) but loved being able to follow the story and couldn't wait to turn the page. The other two toon books (Silly Sally and Otto's Orange Day) will probably be better for a younger child and an older child, respectively. Can't wait for the other three toon books to come out this autumn.

Raves for Benny and Penny in Just Pretend!

I have been a fan of Geoffrey Hayes' stories and artwork since I first discovered this wonderful artist so many years ago. I've collected almost all of his books and am always amazed at his imagination. He creates whole worlds peopled with the most unexpected characters. He always tells a strong story and for readers who haven't yet met these two vivid new characters, Benny and Penny, you can look forward to humor, fun, ingenuity, and a satisfying resolution to a new tale by this unique author/artist.

Excited for more

I was excited to see this new series in a new format from Geoffrey Hayes. I have been a fan since I began reading his Patrick and Ted books to my daughters many years ago. His illustrations are not glitzy but wonderful and appealing. His characters are genuine, and their actions and "adventures" ring true for young readers and listeners. I am excited and can't wait to see more of this new series.

Wonderful Story Teller

I have seen a great deal of Geoff Hayes' work; he is a meticulous artist with a special knack for telling stories in images as well as words. His drawings don't just sit there on the page; they have an animated feel to them that shows what is happening in the story. Geoff's stories are always appropriate to children--teaching important values without preaching--in a form that delights the imagination.