K-Gr 3Fans of Henry and Mudge won't be disappointed by this new adventure. Henry and his parents are invited to a family reunion at Cousin Annie's house. Henry's father promises him lots of good things: meeting new relatives, hearing fun stories, and a million sloppy kisses. The boy is excited to go, but worries that his relatives won't understand Mudge and his dog drool. But to the boy's delight, the family is thrilled to see Mudgehe was built for sloppy kisses! Rylant writes in a straightforward, engaging voice, keeping the action simple but interesting. Beginning readers who need to take breaks will be pleased to have three separate chapters to read, but those who are ready can easily speed through the whole book. Stevenson's warm pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations add to the liveliness of the story; every relative has an individual character and personality. Cousin Annie's room may be decorated in pink lace, but she has a submarine game that wows Henry and she has no fear of Mudge, or what his drool might do to her pretty bed. Any child who has experienced sloppy kisses from a multitude of relatives will know just what Henry is experiencing.Dina Sherman, Brooklyn Children's Museum, NY