Holly Goldberg Sloan knows how to write a story for young people, with a style that’s easily accessible and entertaining for new readers. Her latest book, Appleblossom the Possum, is no exception.
Appleblossom and her numerous siblings learn to survive from their mother, Ma Possum. Appleblossom and her brothers Amlet and Antonio aren’t sure they’re ready to live on their own, but during their first night solo, they’re pretty good at finding food, and they know to stay away from dangerous things like dogs, cars and people. But Appleblossom is a little more curious than an opossum should be, especially about the little girl who lives nearby.
Part realism (how an opossum lives in the world) and part fantasy (opossum rooftop disco in the city), Appleblossom the Possum is a fun read, and the illustrations are a perfect accompaniment to the lighthearted story.
Jennifer Bruer Kitchel is the librarian for a Pre-K through 8th level Catholic school.
This article was originally published in the August 2015 issue of BookPage. Download the entire issue for the Kindle or Nook.
