Where's My Turtle?

February 1, 2020
Poor Archer can't find his pet turtle! Endpapers show toys, books, and other odds and ends, hinting at the protagonist's disorganized ways. A title-page illustration then depicts these same items strewn on the floor like a path that leads to an open terrarium. The titular turtle is seen in the act of crawling out of the tank, which may leave readers wondering why there's no lid. A child appears on the dedication page, looking for something, and the turtle isn't visible. The text begins on the next spread with the statement that "Archer lost things," so apparently having his pet turtle, Kevin, go missing isn't an uncommon occurrence in his life. Luckily, his patient, tidy mom is there to encourage him and help him find his beloved pet. As he searches indoors and out for Kevin, Archer follows his mother's sage advice that there's "a place for everything, and everything in its place." He finds various and sundry lost items, then tries to think like Kevin in order to create an inviting space for the turtle to return to. Hughes' illustrations change perspective and shift from full-room vistas to spot illustrations to support visual interest and entice readers with an I-spy sort of experience as they join Archer in his search for Kevin. Both Archer and his mom have light beige skin and brown hair. Here's a book that will find its way into readers' hearts. (Picture book. 3-6)

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March 1, 2020

PreS-Gr 2-Faced with the mess in her son's room, Archer's mom always says, "A place for everything and everything in its place." Archer finally internalizes this lesson when his turtle, Kevin, goes missing. As Archer searches for his lost pet, he is distracted by toys and other items. He also realizes that every activity is more fun when Kevin is there with him. Archer's wise mom makes a few suggestions that help the boy find his turtle, and his mess gets organized. Eventually Archer comes to understand his priorities. Hughes's charming pen-and-ink illustrations offer recognizable details that young readers will love, from Kevin's clean, inviting environment to Archer's cluttered bedroom. The drawings are particularly effective when she uses broken lines to show Archer's wanderings. Keep an eye on the kitten, who always knows where Kevin is! VERDICT A little responsibility never hurt anyone. Pair with last year's Truman by Jean Reidy for the other side of the story.-Lisa Lehmuller, Paul Cuffee Maritime Charter School, Providence

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