Author & Illustrator Profile
Jonathan Fenske
3 Books
Jonathan Fenske is an award-winning author and illustrator of children's books, widely recognized for his engaging early readers and humorous picture books. His popular works include the Geisel Honor-winning 'A Pig, a Fox, and a Box' series, along with imaginative titles like 'A Unicorn, a Dinosaur, and a Shark Were Riding a Bicycle.' With a knack for silly scenarios and appealing artwork, Fenske creates delightful stories that encourage and entertain beginning readers.
Books in "Crabby"
Crabby is in a terribly grumpy mood, and his energetic friend Plankton is determined to fix it with a game. You watch the relentless Plankton pitch idea after idea, trying to drag the scowling crab into playing Simon Says, Tag, and Hide-and-Seek. Crabby firmly refuses every single suggestion, wanting nothing more than to be left completely alone in his bad mood. This hilarious early reader perfectly captures the dynamic between an overly enthusiastic friend and a deeply stubborn grump. The short chapters, simple dialogue bubbles, and highly expressive artwork provide a highly accessible reading experience for children transitioning to independent reading. You will find yourself laughing at Plankton's endless persistence and waiting to see if the cheerful little sea creature can finally break through Crabby's tough shell.
6-8 Years
44 Pages
The sun is too bright, the salt is in his teeth, and there is irritating sand stuck deep inside his shell. You meet Crabby on a remarkably bad day, completely consumed by his grumpy mood and unwilling to look on the bright side. His relentless friend Plankton swoops in, totally determined to turn Crabby's terrible frown upside down using a series of hilarious antics. This engaging early reader explores the stubbornness of a bad mood and the comedy of an overly cheerful best friend. The story is told through accessible comic-style speech bubbles and short, punchy sentences that help you build reading confidence. The bright artwork perfectly highlights the hilarious contrast between the miserable crab and his eternally optimistic neighbor as you wait to see if Crabby will ever actually crack a smile.
6-8 Years
48 Pages
Crabby is exhausted and ready for a good night of sleep, but Plankton is wide awake and bursting with energy. Just as Crabby closes those tired eyes, Plankton decides it is the perfect time for a bath. When that does not work, Plankton demands a bedtime story.
If you have ever tried to nap while your best friend wants to play, you will know exactly how Crabby feels. This hilarious underwater adventure brings you right into the middle of their funny bedtime battle. Plankton bounces around with endless ideas, while poor Crabby just wants some peace and quiet.
Packed with silly jokes and colorful underwater scenes, this story is perfect for early readers looking for a good laugh. Grab your blanket and get ready to find out if Crabby will ever finally get to drift off to dreamland.
6-8 Years
44 Pages
