written by Caroline Adderson

Izzy and Zoe are so excited to go to summer camp until they realize two things: it’s awful (partly because Izzy drew big black eyebrows on her face with permanent marker) and you don’t even camp out overnight! So, Izzy and Zoe plan their own week of summer camp in Izzy’s backyard under the watchful eye of Izzy’s nanny, Rosa. They have so much fun and are so loud (partly because of Rollo, Izzy’s excited dog) that the neighbor, Mr. Entwistle, is even grumpier than usual on his side of the fence.

Camp gets less fun when Zoe gets sick and can’t come over. Then, Izzy’s mom tells Izzy about Mr. Entwistle’s late wife, Maevis. Izzy realizes that Mr. Entwistle might just be lonely and she invites him to her backyard summer camp. He comes over for lunch and they get along so well that she goes to his house while Rosa is getting her hair done. Well, excitement ensues when Rollo knocks the bathroom door shut and it locks Izzy and Rollo inside. Mr. Entwistle calls 911 and the friendly firemen (who all know Izzy) get her out of the bathroom, which makes for the most excitement that Mr. Entwistle has had in a very long time. All this excitement (and more) leads to a wonderful friendship between Mr. Entwistle (Isodor) and Izzy (Why, they are almost twins with those names!).

This lovely, accessible chapter book is brimming with fun and energy. While there is a moment of reflection when Izzy learns why Mr. Entwistle is so grumpy and sad (done in a very respectful and gently way), the overall tone is humorous and light. The black and white illustrations on nearly every two page spread add to the accessibility of the story. Give this book to your early readers. They will love it!