Pinky and Rex and the School Play

May 1, 1998
K-Gr 3-In this new entry in the series about best pals Pinky and Rex, their friendship is put to the greatest test ever. Pinky decides he wants to be an actor when he grows up and tries out for the lead in Davi, Boy of the Rain Forest. He convinces Rex to accompany him to the auditions for moral support. She isn't interested in acting at all. A big surprise awaits them when the cast list is posted. The play has been renamed Bahi, Girl of the Rain Forest, and Rex has the starring role. Pinky, who has been cast as a monkey, is angry with her. The two eventually realize that their friendship is much too valuable to lose, and Pinky tells Rex that she is good as Bahi. It is Pinky, however, who saves the performance from disaster. Howe fills the story with humorous scenes. Sweet's watercolors capture the action and complement the light mood. The ending, in which Pinky and Rex both order a hot fudge sundae with extra whipped cream "Because sometimes best friends just have to have the same thing," is totally satisfying.-Suzanne Hawley, Laurel Oak Elementary School, Naples, FL

July 1, 1998
Pinky wants the lead in the school play, but ends up with the role of a monkey. When his best friend Rex gets the coveted role, Pinky stops speaking to her. While coping with disappointment, he pays close attention at rehearsals and saves the performance when the others forget their stage directions. This delightful story about friendship and jealousy is enhanced by appealing, color-smart illustrations.

(Copyright 1998 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)