Peter & Ernesto: A Tale of Two Sloths (Graham Annable)

Title:  Peter & Ernesto: A Tale of Two Sloths

Author:  Graham Annable

Illustrator:  Graham Annable

Target Ages:  5-10

Genre:  Early Reader Graphic Novel

Publisher Summary:

Peter and Ernesto are sloths.

Peter and Ernesto are friends.

But Peter and Ernesto are nothing alike.

Peter loves their tree and never wants to leave while Ernesto loves the sky and wants to see it from every place on earth. So Ernesto leaves to have a grand adventure and Peter stays behind and frets.

Evaluation: 

This first book in a new series by cartoonist Graham Annable is an flawless early reading experience. 

Adorable characters. Who doesn’t love sloths? Both have loveable character qualities.  Peter is set in his ways, but a devoted friend.  Ernesto is wide open, longing for adventure.  Their friendship is endearing. 

Universal conflicts.  All ages experience friendships, differences, and fears.  The overarching message is the importance of honoring and appreciating those differences.  When Ernesto returns, he brings new information and experiences to his time together with Peter.  For instance, he shares his knowledge of constellations and other animals. A secondary message is learning to overcome fears and to experience adventure (even small ones). 

Both characters grow.  Peter tackles his fears as he searches for his friend.  Ernesto comes to have a greater appreciation for his home and Peter.

Subtle humor.  For instance, Fox says, “What an odd duck.” Raccoon corrects him, “Sloth.” Also, after Peter crosses the river, he says, “And I didn’t need swim trunks!”  The encounter with the monkeys is hysterical. 

Appealing story.  The illustrations and well-chosen simple vocabulary work to create an engaging narrative.  Annable illustrates, for readers and writers alike, that you do not have to use complicate words to write a page-turning story.

When I was done, I thought:  I am ready for the next book.  Unfortunately, Peter and Ernest: The Lost Sloths does not come out until April 2019! 

I highly recommend Peter & Ernesto: A Tale of Two Sloths.  It is sure to appeal to early and reluctant readers alike.