Shermy and Shake, the Not So Nice Neighbor (Shermy and Shake #1)

An improbable friendship develops over summer vacation in this understated slice-of-life story from Larson (the Audacity Jones books). The beginnings of Shermy’s school break are unassuming, involving bickering with his older sister, fielding gentle reprimands about not wearing his glasses, and dutifully completing chores. Things take a sudden turn, however, when Shermy meets the neighbor’s visiting grandson, Shake, who in short order claims to be from both Jupiter and Walla Walla, then gobbles the last Toaster Tart in Shermy’s kitchen. Shermy, who enjoys orderly pursuits including puzzles and reading slowly (to “taste every word”), finds much irritating about energetic Shake, who loses a favorite Frisbee, enters Shermy’s room without knocking, and spoils the plot of a half-finished book. But an organic companionship nevertheless slowly builds between them, taking root across brief episodes that give tender credence to Shermy’s frustration and Shake’s desire to connect. Shake helps manage Shermy’s disappointment when a Fourth of July celebration falls flat, and Shermy starts to appreciate Shake as a lonely child parted from his honeymooning mother. Earnestly told, low-conflict vignettes affirm the compassion and understanding that friendship can require to bloom. Occasional b&w illustrations from debut illustrator Fujioka show the protagonists with pale skin. Ages 6–9. Author’s agent: Jill Grinberg, Jill Grinberg Literary Management. Illustrator’s agent: Lori Kilkelly, LK Literary. (May)