About the Book:
Title: Pruett and Soo
Author: Nancy Viau
Illustrator: Jorge Lacera
Pub. Date: March 22, 2022
Beagles and Books is excited to be part of the blog tour for Pruett and Soo published by Two Lions/Amazon Publishing. Special thanks to the publisher and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review:
On Planet Monochrome, the home rules are pretty black and white.
Blend in.
Wear only black, gray or white.
Be calm.
Now, at his house, Pruett may have let loose to music when alone, but he adhered to the school rules without fail.
A new student, Soo, joins Pruett’s class and she brings color to his world (literally). Unlike Pruett and his classmates, Soo is full of vibrant hues, immediately asks questions, and uses bright crayons. When Soo befriends Pruett, he desperately wants to reciprocate, but he is worried about breaking the school rules. Color crept into his face but he couldn’t bring himself to join her.
A lonely Soo begins to lose her bright colors and spirit which prompts Pruett to take action. With just one question, Soo’s color returns and Pruett’s color emerges. Feeling confident, Pruett starts asking questions not concerned about the rules. His bravery propels other classmates to join in, and the result is so brilliant, readers may need sunglasses to read the last few pages.
Pruett and Soo is an uplifting story about friendship and finding your voice. I appreciate how Viau shows Pruett’s conflict between following the rules and doing what was right in his heart. Both Pruett and Soo are characters that kids will cheer for because they both have big feelings they can relate to. Lacera’s energetic and vibrant illustrations will captivate kids and truly bring Pruett and Soo to life. What I love most about the story is the message to be true to yourself. Pruett’s friendship with Soo gave him the courage to speak up and take action.
Praise for Pruett and Soo!
“The unlikely friendship at the heart of this allegorical picture book is touching. Viau’s writing is engaging.” –Kirkus Reviews
“Highlighting the value of asserting one’s individuality in the face of pressures to conform, this vivid episode can stand alone or fit neatly into a storytime.” –Booklist
About the Author:
Nancy Viau is the author of a number of books for children including Storm Song, illustrated by Gynux; Today Is a Beach Day!, illustrated by Charlie Alder; First Snow, illustrated by Talitha Shipman; and the Samantha Hansen series. A former teacher, she currently lives in New Jersey and travels around the solar system in her imagination. Learn more at nancyviau.com.
Twitter: @NancyViau1
Instagram: @nancyviau1
Facebook: Nancy Viau
About the Illustrator:
Jorge Lacera was born in Colombia and grew up in Florida. He attended Ringling College of Art and Design and has worked as an artist or art director at major gaming studios and entertainment companies. He is the illustrator of Zombies Don’t Eat Veggies by Megan Lacera and XO, Exoplanet by Deborah Underwood. He lives in Canada with his family. Learn more at studiolacera.com.
Twitter: jlacera
Instagram: jlacera
Beagles & Books 
This looks very affirming–congrats, Nancy & Jorge!
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