Thank you to Tradewind Books for providing me with a digital copy of Emi and Mini in exchange for an honest review.

Title: Emi & Mini

Author: Hanako Masuani

Illustrator: Stephane Jorish

Publisher: Tradewind Books

Book Description:

Emi gets a new pet, Mini, a fat hamster. Unfortunately, Emi doesn’t like hamsters. She wanted a dog. But after Mini escapes from her cage and hides somewhere in their house, Emi realizes she loves her little pet.

My Thoughts:

This was such a sweet book! So many kids can relate to really wanting something that they just can’t have due to life circumstances. Emi really wants a dog, but they’re not allowed in her apartment building. So, she has to settle for a fat hamster. At first she’s disappointed, but eventually Emi realizes that Mini is a great companion. This is a great message about embracing change and focusing on the positive.

This is a beginning chapter book marketed for 6-8 year olds. I think it could also be used with hi-lo readers. It’s hard to find books at this level that are not too babyish for older readers. The conflict could take place at any age, and the reader is never given Emi’s age. So, older struggling readers will appreciate as well.