Birtle and the very unwelcome Garry

Best friends Tootie the turtle and Teeny the bird weather their share of storms. In the first series installment, Teeny landed in Turtletown and came to the slow realization that she was a bird, not a turtle, and the two BFFs embraced the word Birtle (a portmanteau of bird and turtle) to describe themselves and their activities. When the two come across a postcard from the beach, they're enthralled and set off for what's sure to be "a BFF BIRTLE BEACH BONANZA!" Sadly, Tootie's time at the beach turns out to be a bummer: The gnarly waves knock over the pals' sand castle and make surfing a drag. But Teeny's ecstatic to meet another bird for the first time. Wherever Tootie and Teeny go, cool gull Garry is quick to follow, much to Tootie's mounting frustration. Will their friendship stand this new test? Though light in tone, this graphic novel offers a realistic portrayal of conflict resolution. Hannon sensitively balances Tootie's jealousy and fears of being replaced, Teeny feeling torn between sympathy for Tootie and the desire to forge a connection with another bird, and Garry's hopes of meeting a new friend. Energetic illustrations with a bright, limited palette do as much to carry the story as the words themselves; Hannon imparts the valuable message that three most definitely isn't a crowd when it comes to friendship. Sweet, silly, and sincere. (Graphic fiction. 6-9) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.