Ivy + Bean

Ivy + Bean is the first book in a popular children's series that introduces two very different seven-year-old neighbors on Pancake Court. Bean is an energetic troublemaker who assumes the quiet, well-dressed Ivy will be boring, while Ivy harbors her own secret talents for mischief and adventure. The story tracks how these apparent opposites discover their compatibility and forge an unlikely friendship. Their adventures involve creative schemes, neighborhood exploration, and occasional attempts to avoid Bean's older sister Nancy. Sophie Blackall's black and white illustrations complement the text throughout the book, helping bring the characters and their suburban world to life. The reading level targets children in grades 3-4, combining accessible language with engaging chapter-book formatting. The book addresses themes of friendship, judgment, and the value of looking beyond first impressions to find connection with others. Its success launched a series that now includes twelve books, demonstrating the enduring appeal of this unexpected friendship.

Parents and young readers describe Ivy + Bean as a realistic portrayal of how childhood friendships form between unlikely pairs. The humor and mischief appeal to reluctant readers aged 6-9. Readers highlight: - Natural dialogue that captures how kids actually talk - Strong character development of both girls - Illustrations that add personality and help emerging readers - Messages about looking past first impressions Common criticisms: - Some parents object to Bean's disobedient behavior and "naughty" attitude - A few note the book encourages kids to break rules - Several mention the friendship takes too long to develop Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (27,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (1,900+ ratings) Common Sense Media: 4/5 Reader quote: "My 7-year-old daughter read this in one sitting and immediately asked for the next book. She said she loves how Bean reminds her of herself." - Amazon reviewer

Clementine by Barbara Park Two elementary school friends navigate day-to-day adventures and misadventures through pranks, plans, and neighborhood escapades.

Ramona and Beezus by Beverly Cleary A spirited girl brings chaos to her family and school through her creative solutions to everyday problems.

Just Grace by Charise Mericle Harper A third-grade girl documents her observations of school life and attempts to help others through her self-proclaimed special empathy powers.

Judy Moody by Megan McDonald A third-grader tackles life's challenges through schemes and plans that often lead to unexpected results.

Gooney Bird Greene by Lois Lowry A new student transforms her second-grade classroom through storytelling and unconventional approaches to school life.

🌟 The illustrator, Sophie Blackall, won two Caldecott Medals for different books, making her one of the most distinguished children's book illustrators working today. 📚 The Ivy + Bean series has sold over 5 million copies worldwide and has been translated into multiple languages, including Chinese, Italian, and Korean. 🎭 Annie Barrows is also the co-author of the bestselling adult novel "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society," which was adapted into a Netflix film. 🏠 The name "Pancake Court" was inspired by Barrows' daughter's request to live on a street with a food name, after noticing streets like "Cookie Lane" in their neighborhood. ✏️ The series was initially planned as just three books but became so popular that it expanded to twelve books, with the final book published in 2018.