In this sequel to the chapter book Showtime, Jordan and Max join their class on a museum field trip. In no time at all, enthusiastic Max convinces Jordan to ditch their parent chaperone for a solo exploration of downtown Toronto. The boys are soon caught up in the smells and offerings of the food trucks, chat with a friendly Rainbow lady, watch street musicians, and explore a vintage clothing shop. When Max’s cell phone dies, worry finally sets in about how to reconnect with their group. With no way to get home, they are drawn along with festivalgoers and find themselves in the middle of a quirky winter solstice street parade. Luckily, they bump into their chaperone, who informs their teacher they are safe, and are found by Jordan’s grandmother and Max’s two sisters. It's quite an adventure and one that might encourage a frank discussion about safety.

Cautions / Content Warnings: Boys' irresponsible and potentially dangerous behaviour is not clearly addressed.
Images: b&w illustrations
Bibliography: No
Index: No

Source: Books BC - BC Books for Schools

Suzanne Sutherland is an author and editor of books for young people who is passionate about inclusive and engaging storytelling. Her debut novel, When We Were Good, was selected for ALA’s Rainbow list and Under the Dusty Moon was a Toronto Public Library Top Ten Recommended Read for Teens. Suzanne lives in Toronto.

Suzanne Sutherland's profile page

Michelle Simpson grew up in the woods of Niagara Falls, Ontario and still resides there today. She is a full-time freelance illustrator, focusing mainly on children's publications, and holds a BAA in illustration from Sheridan College. Michelle has worked as a concept artist at KeyFrame Animation for kids cartoons such as Ollie: The Boy Who Became What He Ate (Season 2) and Tee and Mo (Season 1). She is the author of Night Festival: A Silent Picture Book and Monsters In My House which was short-listed for the Canadian Self Publishing awards in 2014. Michelle has also illustrated Hanukkah Harvie vs. Santa Claus by David Michael Slater and Back Home by Shaista Kaba Fatehali. Michelle draws her inspiration for her artwork from nature, animals and folklore.

Michelle Simpson's profile page

• Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens
• Commended, Children's Book Council Librarian Favorites Award

“Jordan and Max demonstrate endearing levels of empathy and generosity toward the people they encounter...A chapter book with strengths in terms of diversity and social emotional learning.”

School Library Journal (SLJ)

“The themes of friendship and inclusion are lightly handled but elevate the story over many other less substantial early chapter books. I can’t wait to see what Jordan and Max get up to next!”

Mombian

“Takes a gentle approach to the topics of gender identity, friendship, and acceptance.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials