Ira Says Goodbye

Bernard Waber stretch in my picture book a day review stretch . . . Ira Sleeps Over ranks as one of my all-time favorite picture books. I loved it the first time I heard it, read it, and have read it to every class of mine in my own career. It's classified as my "forever book" at the beginning of th......more

In Ira Sleeps Over, Ira and Reggie meet and navigate the ups and downs of a first sleepover. In this one, they handle the ups and downs of what to do when your best friend moves away. Good story. Might help a kid who is dealing with a similar situation. Don't love these illustrations, but I don't re......more

Ira's bestfriend Reggie is moving away to Greendale, and Ira has mixed feelings about it. At first, both Ira and Reggie are both sad about the move and can't imagine what life will be like without each other. Slowly, Reggie begins to like the thought of moving away and it angers Ira. This is an exce......more

3.5 stars. A realistic portrayal of a child might feel and act upon learning their best friend is moving away. Told in fast-paced, succinct language with a touching ending. While I love how Waber draws crocodiles, I've always found his people to be unappealing.......more

Another wonderful book from my childhood.......more