When a new kid comes to stay with his grandmother at the house next door, Shermy's plans for a quiet, relaxing summer are completely upended. That's because Shake is nothing like Shermy. And Shermy is nothing like Shake. Shermy likes to read quietly in the shade of a tree. He knows the proper way to do a puzzle. He collects treasures in the pouch he wears around his neck, and the books on his shelves are alphabetized by author. Shake likes to play street hockey or space explorers. He gobbles up rocket ice pops and Toaster Tarts. He shows up unannounced and plays board games by his own rules. As the two boys are forced to spend more and more time together, will they learn how to get along? Or will it be one long countdown until Shake goes home? Newbery Honor recipient Kirby Larson teams up with debut illustrator Shinji Fujioka to create a humorous and heartfelt ode to summer--and to unexpected friendships.
Shinji Fujioka was born and raised in Hawaii, where he ignored sun, sand, and surf in favor of reading, playing video games, and drawing lots of ninjas, superheroes, and all manner of weaponry. Shermy and Shake, the Not-So-Nice Neighbor is his first book. He lives in Utah with his family.
An improbable friendship develops over summer vacation in this understated slice-of-life story from Larson. . . Earnestly told, low-conflict vignettes affirm the compassion and understanding that friendship can require to bloom.
--Publishers Weekly
Divided into three sections, each titled by month, this fast-moving tale features short chapters and black-and-white illustrations throughout. Those looking to transition into longer chapter books will find this one accessible, and the storyline will resonate--readers will be eager to read more in this series.
--Kirkus Reviews
When Shake comes to stay with his grandmother for the summer, it's an earthquake in the quiet life of bookish Shermy, who likes everything just so. . . but somehow, as the days tick by, the experiences add up to an opposites-attract friendship.
--The Virginian Pilot