Beak & Ally #1: Unlikely Friends; Norm Feuti

Beak & Ally is the first in a new series of graphic novels and is a warm-hearted and amusing story of the the most unlikely of friendships.

Ally the alligator was perfectly happy in her swamp but then donut wielding Beak swooped in, landed on her snout and ruined the peace and quiet. Yellow-Bellied Fee Boo bird Beak is noisy, incredibly talkative and only has the ability to whistle one song…Fee Boo, Fee Boo, Feeeee Booooo. And to make matters worse, he has decided to build his nest right next to Ally’s swamp.

Shocked to hear that Ally is born to be alone Beak vows to be Ally’s best friend and he has lots of ideas for the wonderful things they can do together. Ally is not so sure. But when Beak finds his nest-warming party has been ruined by an uninvited guest, it is Ally that shows Beak what friendship means to her…

Beak & Ally: Unlikely Friends is a delightful addition to the selection of graphic novels for newly independent readers about the emergence of the most adorable of friendships. Like many of the young graphic novels that deal with two animal characters that have very little in common, this one also explores how differences need not be barriers to a friendship.

The brilliant Beak could chirp and tweet his way into the life of anyone, even Ally is not immune to this charming little bird. Despite maintaining for much of the read that she would rather be alone, Ally’s true feelings come out when Beak’s nest is stolen by a naughty Long-Billed Party Pooper. Ally expertly sorts the bullying bird out and cements her friendship with Beak, or at least in the eyes of Beak she does - Ally’s sulky expression and remark of, “Fine. We’re friends.” suggest it is a friendship that she might be willing to put up with but perhaps not fully embrace…yet.

Beak’s enthusiasm for a friendship that is still to be solidified and Ally’s downright annoyance at having her life disturbed make for a winning combination. Their interactions are laugh-out-loud funny; Ally is witty and does her best to stop the chirpy little bird’s advances whilst Beak is the wanna-be-your-friend that will just not quit.

Given that the action plays out in the swamp-lands, I absolutely love that the illustrations are in greens and blues. So many emotions play out on the faces of the two protagonists; Ally’s face often depicting frustration and annoyance whilst Beak’s changes from surprised to enthusiastic to sad.

A fee-boo-ulous fun tale of friendship. Beak & Ally will be back for more fun later this year.

Recommended for 6+.