Horn Book Review
The clubs at Rory's new school don't appeal to him so he starts his own Reptile Club--and actual (talking) reptiles show up. Soon Reptile Club is the place to be. When the reptiles leave (to hibernate), Rory's new friends stay--yes, "they'd become reptile enthusiasts, but mostly it was because they'd become Rory's friends." A sweet and lively new-school fantasy with friendly illustrations. (c) Copyright 2019. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Kirkus Review
New kid Rory hasn't found a school club he wants to join, so he starts his own, for kids who share one of his interests: the Reptile Club.Lots of kids like animalsand he's certain lots of kids like reptilesso he has high hopes, making posters and bringing in his plastic reptiles and lizard-shaped cookies. Here, what has so far seemed like a fairly run-of-the-mill school story takes a literally wild and fantastical turn when the first participants arrive: not fellow reptile lovers but a crocodile, a snake, and a lizard. The animals introduce themselves and offer some interesting facts. The crocodile tells Rory he sweats through his mouth, for example. When the other students see how much fun the interspecies group is having, "they couldn't wait to join," and Rory's goal is achieved. Rory is a red-haired white child; the classroom is a multicultural group in which boys and girls alike participate in the Prancing Unicorn Club as well as the Extra Math Homework Club. Ellis' digital artwork replicates a scratchy, penciled look, which suits the energetic, imaginative story. As winter approaches, the reptiles must leave, imparting one last animal fact: "Reptiles can't tolerate the cold." Delightfully, this does not spell the end of Rory's friendships.This testament to imagination, confidence, and entrepreneurship offers refreshing takes on learning about animals and how to make friends. (Picture book. 5-7) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Booklist Review
Rory considers joining one of the organizations at his new school, but then decides to create his own: the Reptile Club. No students show up for the first meeting, but a crocodile, an anaconda, and a gecko are eager to join. While the four club members are discussing their favorite reptiles and sharing interesting factoids ( I adore Rocky Rodent ice cream ), Rory's classmates spot his companions and clamor to join the club. Soon they're all enjoying nature hikes and playing Hide and Shriek together. Although, when colder weather comes, the three reptiles must depart to hibernate or migrate, the club continues. Ellis' digital illustrations are bright, zany, and inviting, while Fergus' well-paced story includes a good deal of droll humor that kids will enjoy, from the reptiles' amazing facts and personal anecdotes to their initial reluctance to let mammals join the club. That awkward moment turns into a teachable one when Rory points out that he is a mammal and that prejudice against those with hair and body-temperature regulation is unkind. An appealing picture book especially for reptile fans.--Carolyn Phelan Copyright 2018 Booklist
