Earl & Worm #1

February 15, 2025
An odd-couple pair for new readers to befriend. Right out of the gate, Pizzoli tells readers that "Earl and Worm have been friends for a long, long time." Given that Earl is a bird and Worm is, well, a worm, this reassurance seems crucial, though Pizzoli's illustrations give the anthropomorphic creatures roughly equal physical statures. But it's not Worm's vulnerability as potential prey to Earl that initially makes them unlikely friends; instead, the narrative establishes Worm as grouchy, set in her ways, and unwelcoming of her new neighbor when he moves in next door. Granted, Earl is something of an early bird, making a racket in the morning, and that's just one reason that, try as he might, he can't seem to catch Worm in a good mood. Over the course of three gently humorous short stories, however, affable, patient Earl wins Worm over, and she comes to appreciate his friendship. Throughout, cartoon illustrations excel in conveying Earl's consistently charming disposition and Worm's grumpy, mischievous, and ultimately happy mood. She's the one who changes throughout the course of the tales, thanks to Earl's good-natured, persistent overtures and grace. A winsome tale that charts the ups and downs of friendship with aplomb.(Early reader. 5-7)

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April 1, 2025
Grades 1-3 Welcome to the world of Earl and Worm! Worm lives a content, if slightly grumpy, life in her cozy apple home until Earl the bird moves into the tree next door. His chatty cheerfulness and love of music rub quiet Worm the wrong way, but the generous and gregarious Earl wears down Worm's formidable defenses. Though they don't agree on much, they do agree that they don't like being alone, and the two settle into an affectionate friendship (please note their many vacation photos on the wall). Two more tales capture their delightful dynamic, including a copycatting conundrum and a perplexing poem. The sweet stories, the first in a series, capture the complexities and humor of navigating a close friendship, and though minor irritations abound, the two are always able to resolve their differences. Pizzoli's amusing artwork captures the playfulness perfectly, and Worm's sneaky smiles and Earl's earnest expressions are priceless and sure to engage early readers who value visuals along with their stories. An endearing pair with plenty to share about friendship and fun.

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