The top team by Sally Rippin

Ill. by Stephanie Spartels. Hey Jack series. Hardie Grant Egmont, 2013. ISBN 9781742975429
(Age: 5-7) Highly recommended. School Life. Friendship. Cooperation. Competition. The top team is the latest chapter book in Sally Rippin's Hey Jack series. In each story Jack is introduced by the emotions he's feeling; here he's grouchy. A black and white sketch of Jack with clenched fists, a big frown and angry thoughts illustrate his mood. Jack is angry because the teacher Ms. Milton hasn't paired Jack with his best friend Billie B. Brown (star of her own series.) He's paired instead with Alex who is much better at Maths than Jack. They both learn to cooperate and encourage each other with the daily lessons.
The books are easy to read with the large font and simple sentences, making them a great beginning chapter book for emergent readers. Sally Rippin adds values and life lessons in each story. In The top team both Jack and Alex learn teamwork, cooperation and the need to value each other's strengths. The black-and-white illustrations bring life to Jack and his classmates and add insight into their emotions.
These books are a favourite at school and are highly recommended for 5-7 year olds. These books are targeted to the boy reader; however they can be enjoyed by everyone. They are great to read to a class and can stimulate healthy discussions on moods, emotions and values.
Rhyllis Bignell