03/11/2022

K-Gr 2—John's popular character returns in an early reader format. The Good Egg is excited for an upcoming talent show with fellow foods, but unsure about a possible talent for the performance. From backstage, the Good Egg steps in to support the other acts, leading to a new understanding about the talents that may not be visible, but necessary for a strong community. Fans of the previous The Good Egg, will enjoy the reappearance of favorite characters, and the story moves at a consistent pace for young readers. The illustrations are engaging and colorful, and additional text within them infuses the characters with an extra dose of personality. Emergent readers may find some words difficult but will likely plow forward to stay with the plot. The Good Egg seems to learn a lesson about kindness that is immediately forgotten, a plot twist that will confuse some readers and make others chuckle. VERDICT The Good Egg is a welcome sight for early readers, but deserves a better story.—Casey O'Leary