  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 05/01/2015 Gr 3–6—Mama Possum has done her best to impart wisdom to her newborn "A" possum brood—Antonio, Alisa, Abdul, Ajax, Alberta, Angie, Allan, Alphonse, Atticus, Alejandro, Augusta, Amlet, and the littlest possum, Appleblossom. There are many rules that must be followed in the possum world—never be seen during the day, avoid cars (metal monsters), people, and especially the hairies (dogs). Mama Possum teaches the youngsters how to theatrically play dead to avoid the many calamities facing them daily. Mama tells the babies they are solitary creatures and need to fend for themselves, but when she disappears, the A clan doesn't feel ready to face the world. Appleblossom and two of her brothers, Amlet and Antonio, band together and share stories of their new adventures out in the world. Curious Appleblossom finds a human home with a seemingly nice creature (a little girl named Izzy), but it also houses a terrifying beast of a dog named Columbo, who is intent on sniffing and destroying. When Appleblossom accidentally stumbles down the chimney into the house, it is up to her family to save her. An unlikely friendship and bond forms between Izzy and Appleblossom, and the possum must choose between family and friendship. Sloan has masterfully created an intensely satisfying and humorous tale that makes possums seem utterly adorable. Rosen's charming illustrations pair beautifully with the text, as he draws the possums with intertwined tails, pink noses, and vivid expressions. VERDICT A perfectly sweet animal tale, with just the right blend of humor, excitement, and uncertainty.—Michele Shaw, Quail Run Elementary School, San Ramon, CA - Copyright 2015 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Booklist - 07/01/2015 Introduced at the moment of her birth, Appleblossom is a young possum growing up along with the 12 others in her litter. Mama Possum trains them in possum survival skills: foraging, playing dead convincingly, and avoiding monsters such as people, vehicles, and dogs. Exploring on her own, Appleblossom tumbles down a chimney into a house inhabited by a friendly young girl, her parents, and a decidedly unfriendly dog. Though the endearing possum values her independence, she treasures the family members who bravely attempt a rescue mission. Readers will enjoy both the realistic details of a newborn possum making her way to her mother’s pouch, and the fanciful view of adult possums’ urban nightlife, complete with rooftop music and a conga line. Best of all is the consistent, convincing presentation of Appleblossom’s perspective. Throughout the book, lively black, gray, and pink illustrations portray characters and events. With wide-spaced lines of fairly large type, this attractive book will engage young readers intrigued by animals. - Copyright 2015 Booklist. Loading...
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