Rejoice! Deckawoo Drive, home street of the beloved pig Mercy Watson, is now open to stories once again! My son loves Mercy Watson, and every time he rereads the series (he’s read them all 5 or 6 times, I think), he asks, “Has this author written any more about Mercy Watson? I want more!”
It is easy to see why. First off, Kate DiCamillo’s Mercy Watson books are humorous (they star a pig, of course). In what other stories do beds nearly fall through the floor and pigs go trick or treating? Besides that, the reading level is perfect for beginning readers, those who have just barely graduated out of the easy readers. The books have short sentences, short chapters, and clear dialogue and description. Plus, the Mercy Watson books have been illustrated by the marvelous Chris Van Dusen, which only adds humor and interest to the stories.
Leroy Ninker Saddles Up (Tales from Deckawoo Drive Number 1) by Kate DiCamillo (Candlewick Press, August 26, 2014) is the first of a new series of stories relating to Mercy Watson. Although our favorite “porcine wonder” only makes a cameo at the end, the star of the show is Mercy’s friend Leroy Ninker, who works at the drive-in theater. (He previously appeared in Mercy Watson #6.)
Leroy has watched so many Westerns that he dreams of becoming a cowboy. It’s quite fortunate that he has the chance to adopt the unique horse Maybelline! Maybelline is a special horse that loves compliments: it’s not giddiup that gets her moving but sweet words. She loves spaghetti and does not want to be alone. I love the special quirks of this unique horse. Like Mercy Watson, she is not likely to be forgotten soon!
Leroy has his share of difficulties in adopting a horse. His story is unique and amusing, as only a tale from Deckawoo Drive can be! I highly recommend Leroy Ninker Saddles Up to anyone, child or adult alike, who loves Mercy Watson’s funny world.
This book is not yet published: pre-order a copy on Amazon today! (affiliate link)
Note: I received a digital review copy of this book.
