Blue Ribbon Blues

May 1, 1998
Gr 3-4-In this sequel to Tooter Pepperday (Random, 1995), the girl's Aunt Sally tries to help her adjust to living on a farm by encouraging her niece to show a goat at the county fair. Initially reluctant, she eventually throws herself into preparations for showing her goat, Pepperoni. Her hopes are dashed when her little brother paints blue strips on the animal, spoiling her chances to participate. While attempting to sabotage her competition, Tooter becomes a heroine by chasing off a coyote, thus cementing her friendship with the boy next door. The themes of competition, friendship, and adjustment to a new environment are well integrated into the story. The writing is light, fast-paced, and humorous. Black-and-white, full- and half-page drawings break up the text. A pleasant addition to the paperback rack.-Lisa Smith, Lindenhurst Memorial Library, NY