Benny and Penny in Just Pretend

Just Pretend is the first book in the Benny and Penny book series, aimed at younger readers. They are young mice, with Benny being the older brother to little sister Penny. In this book Benny tries to avoid playing with Penny, because he wants to play pirate by himself. He keeps telling her that she's too little and afraid to hang out with him, but over the course of this book (spoiler) he turns out to be a fraidy cat who needs his little sister to rescue him.

This book was a joy to read, and both of my sons (ages 2 and 4) have wanted to read it multiple times. The illustrations bring to mind classic children's book characters; they are adorable and full of expression and life. The situations, like a brother trying to trick his sister to take or nap or get her to play hide and seek, then "forgetting" to seek her, are relatable and familiar. I've not read other books in the series, but now I just may have to.

This book's author, Geoffrey Hayes wrote over 50 books for children over his career. His first love was comics, though, and he published six Benny and Penny books toward the end of his life. He spoke about his career and work on Benny and Penny in this interview.

All the reviews I have read of this book have sung its praises. In a starred review, Publishers Weekly wrote, "Jazzy, multipanel layouts add a contemporary dimension to simply worded episodes about an eager younger sister and standoffish brother who relish their rivalry more than they admit." Greg McElhatton praised the artwork, "His colored pencils are just gorgeous to look at, rich in detail and shading, and his mice are nothing short of adorable." Usha Reynolds concluded, " Hayes has created a thoroughly charming and witty book that begs to be read over and over again."

Just Pretend was published by TOON Books, and they offer a preview and more info here.