Pip Bartlett's Guide to Magical Creatures written by Jackson Pearce and Maggie Stiefvater, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Pip Bartlett’s Guide to Magical Creatures is a whimsical fantasy novel co-authored by Jackson Pearce and Maggie Stiefvater, aimed at readers in grades 2-4. The story follows nine-year-old Pip, who has a unique ability to communicate with magical creatures, though no one believes her. When Pip is sent to spend the summer with her aunt Emma, a veterinarian specializing in magical animals, chaos ensues as the town of Cloverton faces an invasion of fireball-throwing Fuzzles. Teaming up with her cousin Callie and a neurotic unicorn named Regent Maximus, Pip must use her knowledge and creativity to save both the town and the Fuzzles from destruction. Throughout the book, Pip updates her beloved guide to magical creatures, providing amusing illustrations and facts about the fantastical beings she encounters. With its lighthearted tone, quirky characters, and entertaining plot, the book captivates young readers and encourages their love for animals and nature. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: School librarians can enhance reading comprehension and engagement by organizing read-aloud sessions, where students can explore the text together, fostering discussions about character development and plot dynamics. Additionally, librarians can create creative writing workshops where students design their own magical creatures, encouraging imaginative thinking and storytelling skills. The book can serve as a springboard for environmental education. Discussions on the ecosystems and habitats of both real and fictional creatures can tie into science lessons, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity and conservation. Incorporating art projects, such as illustrating their own magical creatures based on Pip's guide, will allow students to express their understanding visually. By incorporating these activities, librarians can enrich students' learning experiences while promoting literacy, creativity, and environmental awareness.