The Incredible Adventures of Casper the Cat Who Got Lost in Africa, Book 4 by Jennifer Ussi

Today, we're going wild...as in Africa and animal wild. This book is the fourth in a series, which centers around a cat named Casper and its adventures in Africa. And that's all I know since I haven't visited this series before. But I'm betting that it won't be a problem to dive right into Casper's latest adventure with Baboons. Got to love baboons. 

It is thought for beginning readers out there, who are sure of their words but need a bit more practice before hitting larger novels. I'm expecting some animal knowledge goodness but only a little as I can't wait to see what this cat will experience with baboons. It has to be quite the visit.

Grab those safari hats because it's time to head out and see what we can find!

THE BABOONS

The Incredible Adventures

 of Casper the Cat

 Who Got Lost in Africa,

 Book 4

by Jennifer Ussi

Edited by Naomi Green

Illustrated by Lekshmi Bose

Little Boola Books

Children's Animal Fiction

82 pages

ages 5 to 10

Book 4 in The Incredible Adventures of Casper the Cat Who Got Lost in Africa continues the heartwarming journey of a curious city cat making unforgettable animal friends across the wilds of Africa and things are about to get a lot louder, bouncier, and much, much messier.
After leaving the giraffes behind, Casper wakes up in a tree (again!)-only to be boinged awake by a baboon. Before she can even yawn, she's caught in the chaos of a noisy troop, two troublemaking twins, and a whole lot of monkey business.

But when a baby baboon goes missing and old enemies stir in the shadows, Casper discovers that sometimes, it takes an outsider to see things differently.

Perfect for readers ages 5-10, The Baboons is a beautifully illustrated chapter book packed with:

- Animal adventures and laugh-out-loud moments
- Big-hearted themes of courage, kindness, and standing up for others
- Fun wildlife facts woven into the story

Written by award-winning filmmaker Jennifer Ussi and illustrated by Lekshmi Bose, this uplifting 6,500-word tale will leave young readers inspired, entertained, and a little more curious about the world.

GOODREADS     /     AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Africa comes to life in a series which teaches a few facts about Africa and nature, and illustrates the power of friendship.

Casper was simply sleeping on a branch when she is suddenly awoken by a baboon. She meets the baboon's family and journeys with them to discover several adventures thanks to the lively bunch. But things take a more difficult turn as she learns about their issues with the leopards.

This is an adorable and fun series, which lets readers dive into Africa with natural flow. Casper is a kind and curious cat, who can hold her own when meeting the animals of Africa. They tend to make fun of her, but she takes it all in stride as she develops new friendships. This takes an especially important turn as she and her new found friends meet danger, and they need to show how courage and standing up for others is part of true kindness and friendship, too. The tale holds humor, heart, and facts, which slide seamlessly into the plot. 

This book is all about friendship, dealing well with others, showing kindness, being patience, and looking at things from others' perspectives. The lively animals keep the plot running along at a steady pace, and the text flows smoothly, working great for ages 7 to 10 with even a few vocabulary builders along the way. It also works great as a read-aloud for younger readers. There are colorful illustrations scattered in the pages to let each animal come across with added personality and flair. The only thing which pulled me out a tiny bit was remembering who each character was, since there are more than a few animals popping in and each one is referred to by a normal, human name. But this isn't hard to catch onto, especially thanks to the illustrations.

It's a lovely, wholesome read with quite a bit to enjoy.