Ivy & Bean (Book 1)

The book came in a small envelope, well protected but without being wasteful, and in perfect condition. My daughter already owned the full series. However, she loaned book #1 to a friend whose dog and toddler sibling chewed it up. She is now 9, an amazing reader, and a bit nostalgic so she wanted to re-read the series, which led me to repurchase the missing book 1. She read it again in 1 day. The great thing about this book also is that while it is about 2 girls, it really appeals to multiple personalities of any gender. My 7yo boy is a reluctant reader at 1st grade level with a short attention span. He much prefers sports and running around and finding any way to expend his endless energy. However, he got curious about Ivy and Bean, so we started reading. He sat and read the entire first chapter to me and then even said "Reading isn't boring with a book like this!!!!" (I have tried every type of book imaginable with him .... who knew the trick was under my nose the whole time?!) It is great that he is reading a book with strong, smart, adventurous female leads also because it continues to counteract any gender stereotypes that society might try to sneak into his impressionable mind without being a work of activism. :) Overall, this book and series is a favorite in our household. I read books ~1-3 outloud with my daughter as her first series and then she couldn't wait for our reading time in the evenings, so she took off finishing the series by herself at school, aftercare, in the morning, any chance she could get. I look forward to reading them out loud again with my son although I already caught him tonight reading ahead in his room with his flashlight. I've dreamed of this day for a long time! That's definitely a testament to the quality of writing in this series.

It is a good book about how to make friends. It is a funny book. It has a lot of drama in a good way.

This is the first book in a series about two seven-year-old girls who develop an unlikely friendship. Ivy and Bean are totally different: Ivy is quiet , and Bean is her loud neighbor. One day, Bean tries to play a trick on her older sister Nancy and it backfires. Bean knows she must escape, and she ends up in Ivy's backyard. They quickly become accomplices against Nancy and her continued efforts to get Bean into trouble. The rest of the book follows their adventures around Pancake Court. In the end, they realize they have more in common than either of them had thought. Besides, sometimes don’t opposite personalities make best of friends? This book is full of silly antics as Ivy and Bean remind us what a child's imagination can create out of normal neighborhood characters. I won’t spoil the surprise but this book will surely make you will laugh out loud! My daughter had fun. I think this series would be a great fit for students who are hesitant about transitioning into chapter books. It's full of friendship and humor, two things that my daughter can relate to. Many reviewers have said that Ivy and Bean do not make good role models because they are always getting into mischief, but I would argue that their mischievous nature is what makes them interesting. Moreover, the type of "mischief" they get into is not that bad (playing tricks on their siblings and neighbors, etc.) as long as you are willing to have a conversation with your child about what is and isn't acceptable. My daughter thoroughly enjoyed it and would be buying more of it.

I bought this on Kindle to have something to read with my six year old daughter at bedtime or when we were waiting somewhere. Not only was it fun for her but I was laughing out loud as well. She actually got excited when we had to wait for her brother or an appointment because she wanted to hear what happened next. We can't wait to continue the series.

If you have 1st or 2nd grade girl, try this beginner chapter book! Cute and relatable story. There are pictures to help aid in the transition from story books to full blown chapter books. There are some words that your child may need help with but overall, this book is perfect for new readers! Perfect gift for a bday party too!

A long time ago a member of the Trotsdale community requested me to read and review the first book of Ivy & Bean. I recently finally was able to get my hands on a copy, and would certainly like to read this in the library. This story starts out with Bean, your typical tomboy who is very satisfied to have fun. Her mother tries to get her to be friends with Ivy, who to Bean seems to be your typical Goodie-Two-Shoes and thus dismisses her. One day however while attempting to play a prank on her older sister Bean finds out that perhaps Ivy is far more mischief-filled than she had first thought. The reader is then taken on a wild neighborhood adventure with a humorous conclusion. Regarding the danger that some might find in the play, such as walking fences, causing people to fall in the mud… I have to say that these are normal things for children to get up to. Children inherently desire to take risks. Climbing trees and hiding in bushes is low key. I have noted that more and more people try to tame and insulate children. Is it any wonder now that the current young generation looks for escape and outlet via their electronics? This book hearkens back to an earlier time, the sort that can still be found in some rural communities even if the suburbs and cities try to snuff out explorative play. I highly recommend this book and series, especially for those that are looking for a light hearted and swift read. Children’s books don’t have to only be enjoyed by children.

Realistic stories and characters that should be entertaining for kids. I recommend these books.

I liked when they got back at the big sister. Ivy and Bean have great ideas and they are fun. (M age 7)

Es la historia de dos amigas de aproximadamente 9 años. Como cada una tiene una personalidad diferente y marcada, las niñas y niños pueden identificarse con ellas y disfrutar de sus aventuras. Capítulos cortos que facilitan la lectura en inglés, una vez pasada la etapa de meras historias cortas.

Wonderful book. my 6 year kid loves it a lot

My granddaughters from 5 , 6 , 8 , 10 years old , love reading these books. Great value for money too.