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Chi-Chi revisits the classic odd couple and first day of school tropes while introducing two new characters, set in a school of animals. The story begins with Chi-Chi and Pey-Pey explaining how to read the comic panels and speech bubbles, then racing off to begin the school day as the bell rings.
Chi-Chi starts off the story with a simple list of things she likes and a disclaimer that she's not at all worried about school, although she's really quite anxious. Then Pey-Pey is introduced, along with their favorite things. Pey-Pey has a fun summer, not thinking about school at all. While Chi-Chi stays up the night before, worrying, her comb neatly tucked in a bonnet, Pey-Pey sprawls across their bed, drooling a little. On their first day of school, the teacher tells them they are class buddies and need to find out what they have in common. But they have nothing in common! They like different snacks, toys, and even shapes! Finally, when they are ready to give up, they discover they do have something in common after all - and now they are friends.
Chi-Chi is a brown chicken with a bright red comb and big, colorful bows and dresses. Pey-Pey is a penguin with a slick mohawk of feathers, dressed in a comfortable pants and sweaters. The panels are simple and brightly colored, accompanying the brief text and dialogue. This is an attractive story for emerging readers, although it doesn't have the bright humor of more well-known series like Elephant and Piggie.
Verdict: A strong addition to early reader collections with a simple, social-emotional themed storyline and easy to follow text and art. Young readers who enjoy classics like Biscuit will be excited to branch out into a different format. A second title in the series will be released in August and librarians may want to order them together.
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