Info
- Illustrated by Heather Ross
- Age: 5 – 8 years
- Publisher: Candlewick (May 23, 2023)
- ISBN-10: 1536218316
- ISBN-13: 978-1536218312
Can classroom mice Fergus and Zeke work together to finish their project on American presidents—even when Zeke gets bossy?
It’s Presidents’ Day, and all the students in Miss Maxwell’s classroom are choosing their special projects. Classroom pets Fergus and Zeke want to participate, too! Zeke appoints himself president of their cage. But the power goes a bit to his head, and his “leading” and “supervising” leave Fergus to do all the work. Will these two mice be able to agree on what makes a good president—and a good friend—in time to turn in their project with the rest of the class? Humorously illustrated and sprinkled with presidential trivia, this fifth title in the delightful series is a winning candidate.
“The kids — and the use of historical and presidential facts — are a backdrop to the engaging storyline of Zeke’s comedically flawed (and likably relatable) self-centeredness, but the value-driven thematic inspiration is an effective motivator for Fergus’ assertiveness. The resulting combination of silliness and broad-strokes idealism creates a rounded story structure. . . A wholesome, solid story with fun characters.”
~ Kirkus Reviews
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