Monkey Me and the Pet Show (Timothy Roland)

 

This is an interesting story. It's about two siblings who are twins. The boy can't control himself sometimes. When he gets really excited he jumps up and down and runs around and generally acts crazy - and turns into a monkey. It made me wonder if this is a commentary of sorts on the tendancy of more boys to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls. The sister in the story always tries to get him to settle down and act in socially acceptable ways - but he just can't help himself. He acts like a monkey - and actually does turn into one, thanks to a banana he ate at a science lab.

 

The story is cute and the pictures are simple. It is part of a new series of easy chapter books that Scholastic has published. My class loves them.

 

Goodread summary:

When Clyde gets excited, he brings a whole new meaning to "monkeying around!"
This series is part of Scholastic's early chapter book line called Branches, which is aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow!
Clyde is an energetic student who just can't sit still. When he gets too excited, he transforms into a real monkey! When the class bully challenges Clyde's "monkey me" to the pet talent show, he has no choice but to participate. But when the other pets start to disappear, Clyde uses his inner monkey to save the day.