Marco Polo, Brave Explorer

This charming early chapter book, the second in the "Book Buddies" series, introduces Marco Polo, a tiny toy mouse from the library who dreams of grand explorations. He finds his purpose when borrowed by Seth, a boy facing the daunting challenge of his first sleepover. Seth fears being teased if he brings his usual comfort toy, but Marco Polo is small enough to hide in his sleeping bag. The story gently explores themes of fear, bravery, self-confidence, and the special bond between a child and a beloved toy. It also offers a whimsical peek into the secret lives of toys, including a mild "suspenseful glimpse" into where lost toys might go. Ideal for children aged 4-8, it's a heartwarming read-aloud or an encouraging independent read for those just starting chapter books.

Can an intrepid toy mouse help a child venture out of his comfort zone? Book Two of an endearing illustrated series about friendly library toys and the children who borrow them. Marco Polo is a retired Christmas ornament, but in his mind he is a great mouse explorer. Because he’s tiny and likely to be lost, he is the least-borrowed of the Book Buddies—toys that children can check out of the library just like a book—and he almost never leaves the library. But the little mouse finally meets the right match in Seth, a boy who is about to attend his first sleepover. If Seth were to bring the stuffed bunny he usually sleeps with, he’d risk being teased, but Marco Polo is the perfect size to hide away in his sleeping bag. Are both boy and mouse in for an unexpected adventure? Charmingly illustrated and offering a window into the secret life of toys (including a suspenseful glimpse at where all the household’s lost toys go), Marco Polo Brave Explorer explores common fears and quiet bravery and will leave readers eager for the next episode in the Book Buddies series.