Can I Come, Too?: An Adventure with the Grumpy Faces

PreS-Gr 2–A solitary polar bear, content in the silence of the Arctic, sets out in search of his next meal. His peaceful journey is interrupted by a curious fox pup, who wants to tag along. Soon, a wolf joins the group, leading to a moment of confusion and fear. However, the animals quickly realize that their individual strengths (smell, hearing, and self-regulation) make them a good team for the journey ahead. Told with a clear message about cooperation and the value of diverse talents, the story feels more like a vehicle for the lesson than a engaging narrative in its own right. The plot is minimal, and the character development is limited, which may leave young readers disengaged. The illustrations rely on a limited palette of icy blues and whites, effectively conveying the Arctic setting but lacking detail and visual interest. Additionally, the small font size may pose a challenge for early readers or group read-alouds. Verdict This well-meaning but underdeveloped story will have limited appeal in school or library settings and is not recommended for purchase.