POUT-POUT FISH

Mr. Fish and his pals enjoy a festive Friendsgiving.

Mr. Fish arrives at Mr. Eight’s home. The octopus is busy cooking and asks Mr. Fish to invite guests. Off he goes. Miss Shimmer is taking part in a Turkey Trot race, so Mr. Fish jumps in unregistered among the participants and finishes just behind her. She happily accepts the invitation, calling it the “perfect prize.” Next Mr. Fish encounters Mrs. Squid and Ms. Clam; each wants to make her renowned pie for their dinner together. (Oddly, they’re both described as worried rather than in conflict.) Mr. Fish suggests they both make their preferred desserts and bring them to the group dinner. Counting up the three guests, Mr. Fish doesn’t know whether they are “too many, or not enough.” When he finds Mr. Lantern taking a wagonload of donations to the free food pantry, Mr. Fish helps him and extends another invitation. And finally, he adds Mr. Shark, the pantry manager, whose work he appreciates. Mr. Fish has lost track of the number. No matter: Everyone gathers for a festive group meal. Mones’ bright illustrations faithfully channel Hanna’s in the original books, but with no conflict or drama, there’s little tension keeping the plot afloat.

Lacks the buoyancy of previous series installments.