Children's Literature
Primary students will be familiar with Pinky and Rex from their many previous adventures. Strangely, Rex is the girl character and Pinky the boy character; they are best friends who eat lunch together, talk on the phone, and share secrets. When Pinky confides to Rex about his desire to be the star in the school play he pleads with her to come give him moral support. To get out of spelling class, Rex agrees to go to the tryouts and keep Pinky company. The relationship changes when Rex innocently gets the lead in the school play. Originally written in 1998, this book covers a timely topic about allowing jealousy and selfish desires to interfere with a close friendship. A great book to use when teaching character education and helping children deal with issues of caring, friendship, and encouragement for others. A Level 3 "Ready to Read" book, it has longer chapters and more challenging vocabulary. The subtle watercolor illustrations are charming and bridge the gap between picture book and reader. The reinforced library binding by Spotlight is a bit pricey, but media specialists know that in the long run this book would survive rough handling much better than a paperback. 2006, Aladdin, \$ 24.21. Ages 7 to 12.