Otis & Peanut, written by Naseem Hrab and illustrated by Kelly Collier. Owlkids Books, 2023. $21.95 ages 6 and up

 

"I still feel like me. 

But with a hat.

I need a bigger change,
Otis. 

What about a new coat? 

I LOVE COATS!"

The first book in a new graphic novel series introduces developing readers to Otis, a guinea pig, and Peanut. a naked mole rat. The two have a supportive and humorous friendship. Three stories offer a closer look at them as they deal with a needed haircut, sadness, and making a house a home. These changes are handled with keen awareness and empathy. 

In the first, Otis is worried about what might happen when he gets his hair cut. Will it hurt? Will he become someone entirely new and different? Peanut considers getting a haircut of her own, just to change things up. Otis has a suggestion or two for making a change without getting an unnecessary haircut. Peanut soon looks like a brand-new friend. What can Otis do to change his appearance? Voila! A haircut works. 

The second story is laced with sadness. Otis is swinging all alone when Peanut arrives at the park. Missing Pearl is consuming Otis's thoughts. There are many things to miss about her friendship. Peanut proves a wise and caring listener as the two share memories of what made Pearl so important to Otis. In sharing those secrets, the sadness lifts and allows for considering happier times. 

Finally, in the third tale of enduring friendship, Peanut helps Otis do what needs to be done to provide a welcoming place for friends to spend time together in his new house. It is in having things from outside and in that carry memories of good times. In that way, a house becomes a home and a gathering place for friends to create new memories. 

Appealing characters and heartfelt scenes offer comfort and charm for readers, and assure they will want to see Otis and Peanut in future adventures.