Peter and Ernesto: Sloths in the Night, written and illustrated by Graham Annable. First Second, Macmillan. Raincoast. 2020. $24.50 ages 7 and up

"He said he was going to
the river.

That's where he found the 
fabric for my wind sock!

Oh!

But after that, I didn't see
him the rest of the day! 

Huh."

Graham Annable knows how to pen stories about friendship; he proves it in this third adventure for Peter and Ernesto, two sloths who know what being a friend means. Fans will be pleased to have a new addition to this very popular series.

Both sloths love the jungle, although they do know how dangerous it can be if care is not taken. This is especially true at night. There are bats, and owls, and there's even talk of a dragon at the temple. When they realize that their friend Bernard is nowhere to be found as night is falling over the jungle, they face the danger with brave hearts and a will to rescue him.

Mutual friends join them as they set out, despite their concern for what lies ahead of them. A swooping bat is first. Lucky it is not very skilled. The bat hasn't seen Bernard but he has a warning about the Dark Glades. On they go in the moonlight, sharing conversation about Bernard. The temple awaits, and perhaps the dragon they have been imagining. They are surprised when they think they find him, only to discover it is an owl. A demanding and scary owl!

They avoid the owl, but not the darkness of the glades ... another surprise on their journey. Luckily, a polka-dot tree frog provides the light they need to find their way forward. Needless to say, adventure awaits at every turn and does not deter the friends from their quest. What further surprises are in store? 

This series is welcome for its stories about friendship, and working together to make things better. A great read for those who are new to chapter books, and excited to find a series that appeals to their sense of humor and humanity.