Stuart's Cape

Grade 2-4–Stuart is a third-grader with serious concerns. He's worried about facing man-eating spiders, going to a new school, and having a boring life. What he needs is a cape! People with capes have lives rife with adventure. When Stuart creates a cape from old ties and a purple sock, things suddenly get interesting. He has a visit from a dinosaur, a horse, and a gorilla. Angel food cake gives him the power of flight. He grows toast from seed, and he rescues the trash man who has changed places with his cat. Each of these adventures is a humorous romp with clever word play and delightful twists. Sara Pennypacker's easy chapter book (Orchard, 2002) stretches the imagination for young listeners. Marguerite Gavin reads with dry humor and excellent pacing.