Hector Finds a Fortune (ADVENTURES OF HECTOR FULLER)

Grade 2-4-In this second adventure, the six-legged, four-winged wumblebug finds his fortune in a surprising place-a special friendship. When Hector receives a letter from his Uncle Baxter urging him to travel upstream to work at his bee farm, he is reluctant to leave home. However, his friend Lance the lacewing coaxes him to make the journey, and the two set out. Along the way, they stop at a waterfall, and a mischievous raccoon throws a nutshell at Lance that knocks him into the water. Without a moment's hesitation, Hector plunges in to save his buddy. When the travelers finally reach the farm, Uncle Baxter refuses to welcome Lance into the family business, not wanting to share the profits. Then he chides Hector for searching for his friend after a thundering rainstorm. Feeling "his antennae get hot," Hector stands up to his uncle and sticks up for his pal. Throughout this enjoyable tale, Shreeve mixes lighthearted moments with suspense; her descriptive language flows smoothly and her characters come to life on the pages. Deft touches of humor are smoothly incorporated into the narrative, such as a scene in which Hector accidentally falls into some honey while investigating a hive. Using varying perspectives, the pencil illustrations further the story and show details of insect life. Fans will look forward to more adventures starring this down-to-earth bug.
James K. Irwin, Nichols Library, Naperville, IL
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