Shake tries Shermy’s patience repeatedly throughout the summer, but he can also be lively, fun, and even emotionally honest with a friend he trusts. Readers can decide for themselves whether Shermy will miss Shake when he goes home. Children new to chapter books will appreciate the book’s wide-spaced lines and its many attractive black-and-white illustrations. . . .[Larson] builds a strong foundation for the Shermy and Shake series in this appealing early chapter book.
—Booklist
An improbable friendship develops over summer vacation in this understated slice-of-life story from Larson. . . Earnestly told, low-conflict vignettes affirm the compassion and understanding that friendship can require to bloom.
—Publishers Weekly
Divided into three sections, each titled by month, this fast-moving tale features short chapters and black-and-white illustrations throughout. Those looking to transition into longer chapter books will find this one accessible, and the storyline will resonate—readers will be eager to read more in this series.
—Kirkus Reviews
When Shake comes to stay with his grandmother for the summer, it’s an earthquake in the quiet life of bookish Shermy, who likes everything just so. . . but somehow, as the days tick by, the experiences add up to an opposites-attract friendship.
—The Virginian Pilot