Lulu and the Hedgehog in the Rain by Hilary McKay and illustrated by Priscilla Lamont

Lulu and the Hedgehog in the Rain by Hilary McKay and illustrated by Priscilla Lamont. Albert Whitman and Company, 2014. 112 pages.

Reading Level: Chapter Books, ages 6-10
Recommended for: Ages 4-10

In this latest Lulu installment, Lulu bravely rescues a forlorn hedgehog during the “wettest [day] in sixty-four years.” Her love for animals drives the series, but most of her previous rescues have been domesticated animals (dog, cat, rabbit, duck). Determined to protect and care for the little hedgehog while simultaneously preserving its wild instincts, Lulu enlists the help of her friends and neighbors. The Hedgehog Club has its ups and downs as each member wants to care for Sonic-for-Short in his or her own way. Tragedy appears to strike just when morale is low, and Sonic-for-Short disappears. A happy ending results along with the reunification of the Hedgehog Club. Hard work, friendship, and sweet pictures of family life fill this charming book. Fans of the Lulu series will enjoy reading about her latest adventures. The Lulu books are exemplary chapter books for those just moving out of easy readers; they are also good choices for struggling readers in the third and fourth grades because they will identify with Lulu.

Information about the Series: The Lulu books form a noteworthy chapter book series: tightly written with just the right ratio of words to pictures. Great characterization, good plot resolution, and solid relationships make these books winners. Lulu is resourceful, childlike, concerned about animals, and struggles with obeying her parents. She is close with her parents and also with her cousin Mellie. The books each feature an animal-related adventure in which Lulu is trying to save an animal with her cousin Mellie’s help. Humor, early-elementary-level adventure, and consequences for Lulu’s actions (both responsible and irresponsible) make these books a perfect fit for young readers transitioning from the easy reader stage to longer chapter books. Illustrations are well done and add to the story. Both boys and girls will enjoy these, but young girls who have a bleeding heart for animal rescue will especially enjoy them.

Related Titles: Lulu and the Duck in the Park, Lulu and the Cat in the Bag, Lulu and the Dog from the Sea, Lulu and the Rabbit Next Door

Cautions: none

Overall Value: 4 (out of 5)

• Moral/worldview value: 4
• Artistic value: 4

Categories: Chapter Books, Girls, Animals, Realistic Fiction, Character Values (friendship, perseverance)