Super Sleepover!

Super Sleepover! is the second book in Cale Atkinson’s graphic novel series about Simon and his ghost buddy, Chester. This time, the friends are each facing a problem. Simon, who struggles to make friends, is invited to his first sleepover while Chester is preparing for his annual haunting inspection, something which he needs to pass in order to avoid being transferred to another location. They agree to help each other out, but timing is not on their side as the two events coincide.

While the first book, Super Detectives! (www.cmreviews.ca/node/2142) was simply lots of fun, this story has the added element of heart. At the risk of spoiling the end, watching Chester choose helping Simon over acing his inspection was delightfully heartwarming and sweet—even more so because Simon had tried to do the same for Chester earlier, only to be sent to the sleepover against his will. Their friendship is so sweet and genuine; it’s nice to see friends who are true equals and have a mutual give-and-take. It’s an excellent lesson for young readers, showing without telling how to be a good friend.

While the story is good, it’s Atkinson’s illustrations that are the highlight. The colour palette is rich and bright, and the characters are adorable. Atkinson does an excellent job of creating emotion on the faces of his people (and ghosts). The balance of text to images is spot-on for the age group; this book fits right in that sweet spot between a picture book and graphic novel. It’s perfect for encouraging younger kids to move up to the next level. I can see it as a bridge between Mo Willems’ “Elephant and Piggie” books and more middle-grade graphic novels like Chad Sell’s “The Cardboard Kingdom” series.

Once again, my household will be anxiously awaiting the next instalment of the “Simon and Chester” series.