Penny & Jelly: Slumber Under the Stars
Maria Gianferrari, Author
Thyra Heder, Illustrator
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Fiction, Jun. 14, 2016
Suitable for Ages: 4-7
Themes: Sleepover, Dogs, Stargazing, Creativity, Solutions, Friendships
Opening: “Hooray!” said Penny. “Tomorrow is Sleepover Under the Stars Night, Jelly!”
Synopsis: Penny is excited when she receives an invitation to a sleepover under the stars from the recreation center. She calls her four best friends to see if they are attending. Penny begins to make a list of what she needs: sleeping bag, pillow, PJs, book and Jelly. Then Penny realizes that the invitation says “no pets allowed.” She comes up with an idea to make a pretend Jelly — out of paper, yarn, fleece, vegetables, marshmallow, cotton balls and clay. But, her creation just isn’t her beloved Jelly. Penny must find a solution.
Why I like Penny & Jelly:
Maria Gianferrari has written a perfect summer read for children about a determined girl and her devoted dog. Slumber parties and outdoor sleepovers are a summer tradition for children. I especially like that this slumber party is about stargazing, a great activity for children to learn about constellations. Penny is a fun-loving character full of heart, who sports mismatched socks with every page turn. She’s imaginative, curious, enjoys picking out star constellations, and is resourceful in finding a solution to her problem. Thyra Heder’s warm watercolor illustrations are cheerful, expressive and eye-catching. The characters are diverse. I love the book cover. Verdict: This captivating story will be a popular summer read with children and parents as it lends itself to many discussions. Visit Penny & Jelly at their website.
Maria Gianferrari is also the author of Penny & Jelly: The School Show.
Children's Books Heal 
Wonderful! This book reminds me of me and my dog Charlie. These stories about Penny and Jelly demonstrate how valuable pets are. Love those illustrations! You’re right GREAT SUMMER read.
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Susan, I’m glad you enjoyed this wonderful summer read about Penny and her dog, Jelly. Perfect for summer reading.
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Sounds very sweet:). Whenever I sleep under the stars with my dog he barks at raccoons all night! Not so restful, haha.
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Smart dog — so many noises and smells for pets. It is an adorable story that all kids can relate to.
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This looks like a real charmer. Who doesn’t like sleeping under the stars and beholding the night sky with their canine pal?
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It is such a sweet book. I think both adults and pets enjoy being under the night sky star gazing.
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Lucky me – I get to attend Maria’s double book launch this Sunday for Penny and Jelly Slumber Under the Stars AND Coyote Moon! I know she’ll be thrilled that you featured her newest book Pat. 🙂
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Are you taking a pet? Wanted to review the book sooner, but so many bloggers had, so I waited. Hope I give her a little more PR. It’s a great book!
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LOL – no pet. Perhaps I should wear my pajamas? 🙂
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I think Jelly looks a little like ME! Plus Mom always wears mismatched socks! We may BE Penny and Jelly in real life.
Love and licks,
Cupcake
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Your cover is blown. Didn’t know your mom wears mismatched socks. That’s great! Glad you enjoyed the b ook.
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Sounds like a winner!
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It is a perfect summer read! Thanks for stopping.
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What a beautiful book and story. Kids will love this. Thanks for sharing Pat.
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Don’t you just love that cover! Yes, kids will have a fun time with this story.
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Looks like a great read for kids that age. Pets are so important to them. Sounds like a fun series.
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Such a great summer story for children. Love that cover and the focus on star gazing.
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Sounds like such a sweet summer read. Great review, Pat!
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Thank you! Since it is about slumbering under the stars, I thought it a perfect summer share.
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This sounds like a fun book. It’s always nice to see books that are geared for younger readers or have everyday themes. I love how she makes a pretend dog!
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Yes, Penny’s pretend Jelly’s were creative and humorous, but just not Jelly. Kids will love this story.
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Thank you so much for the lovely review and taking the time to share this, Patricia!! I really appreciate it! I just came across it, or I would have thanked you sooner :). I love Thyra’s art and the cover too–it’s so vibrant!
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Thank you for visiting. I’m glad you enjoyed my review! I loved Penny and Jelly’s story. The artwork really stand out and is vibrant. Hope you sell a lot of books!
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