Band on the Run

November 15, 2017
Grades 1-3 Lovable curmudgeon Renata Wolfman (Wolfie) reluctantly takes the stage in her second outing. The story opens at the breakfast tableWolfie busily reading about helicopters, and her parents gently encouraging her to participate in the school talent show, claiming it will help draw Wolfie out of her shell. She doesn't miss a beat before replying, I like being in my shell. Enter Livingston Flott (Fly), gregarious neighbor and aspiring friend to Wolfie. After barging into her house with his guitar and asking Wolfie to help him with his song, a few unexpected things happen. Wolfie discovers she enjoys playing the drums (actually an overturned pot and trash can), and she agrees to play with Fly in the show. As they practice, their imaginations kick into high gear, positioning the two rockers before a roaring crowd. A wild adventure ensues, returning the kids home just in time for the talent show. Entertaining and relatable, Wolfie and Fly's odd-couple friendship continues to illustrate the benefits of new experiences and stepping outside of one's comfort zone.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)