Info
- Illustrated by Heather Ross
- Age Range: 5 – 8
- Grade level: K – 3
- Hardcover: 56 pages
- Publisher: Candlewick (April 14, 2020)
- ISBN-10: 1536202029
- ISBN-13: 978-1536202021
Classroom pets Fergus and Zeke can’t wait for Field Day! But all the events are the wrong size — what can these two little mice do?
Fergus and Zeke love being the class pets in Miss Maxwell’s classroom. From science experiments to art projects, they do everything the students do. But on Field Day, none of the events are the right size for the small mice — the limbo is too easy, the high jump is too hard, and kickball is absolutely terrifying! So Fergus and Zeke create their own Field Day Challenge, with mouse-size tug-of-war, acorn throwing, and Hula-Hooping. After all the fun and exercise, it’s time to go back to the classroom — but Fergus and Zeke are locked out! Will they be able to use their new skills to get inside in time for ice pops? This new outdoor adventure in the endearing school-themed series from award-winning author Kate Messner, with lively pictures by Heather Ross, will have young readers jumping for joy.
Praise for the Fergus and Zeke series:
“The four chapters of this easy reader zip right along with a straightforward, breezy plot and two charming, mischievous mice leading the way…The art’s peppy lines and occasional plays on perspective support but never overwhelm the text. Short sentences, some stealthy repetition, and a host of sight words give plenty of scaffolding to young readers, and this might also make a diverting read-aloud before a class trip.”
~ Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“Messner’s first in a new early-reader series (Fergus and Zeke will visit the school science fair next) is divided into four chapters and meant for those who are confident enough in their reading abilities to begin to make the transition to chapter books. Ross’ digital illustrations add interest and break up the text, giving readers a mouse’s-eye view of the museum and its fascinating exhibits…Here’s to more adventures for Fergus and Zeke!”
~ Kirkus Reviews
“Messner (the Ranger in Time books) lets readers live out their Night at the Museum fantasies through Fergus and Zeke’s explorations…Ross’s (Grimelda: The Very Messy Witch) energetic full-color cartoons run wild with the museum-as-playground theme, and Zeke’s decision to join Fergus in the classroom neatly sets up their next adventure.”
~ Publishers Weekly
“Messner’s text is approachable and creative, and builds suspense that will keep readers excited until the end. Ross’ illustrations expand the text and breathe life into two adorable mice and the museum experience. This first book in a new series is sure to be a hit.”
~ Booklist