This first in a series from Author W.T. Kosmos has potential, but at times felt almost outlandish difficult to follow. It is a fantasy, set in the Island Nation world where Puddin' Head Island and Sweetie Island mimic the Seussian Sneetches. A hint of scifi is introduced with the concept of MC Frame glasses as a used technology. Puddin' Heads, who wear red, and Sweeties, who wear blue, are rivals to the point that for some citizens, being friends is not allowed. Maya, a Puddinghead, is best friends with Lily, a Sweetie. When Maya's family rescues a puppy, a pet that is brand new to the Island Nations, Maya has to learn how to care for puppy Waggers. The entire book spans one day in these adventures, which detail Maya's hesitancy to scoop Wagger's poop. The book is geared toward children 8 years or older, so the concept of "poop" will draw readers in, but the bizarre characters that seem over the top will be harder for readers to find engaging. One example is Chip who is devastated that Maya and Lily won't be his best friend, resorting to bawling and throwing himself down on a dirt pile and pounding it with his hands. Another extreme example are the Barkers, two adult men and a woman, who wear red clothing, red masks, red spoon hats, and red spoons belts, crawling on the ground to sneak up on Maya and Lily. The characters are all outlandish and bizarre, which makes the book feel forced and less engaging. Another note, the cover photo does not correspond with the text. Maya is described as wearing a blue shirt with a rainbow, which plays into the story, since blue is the rival Sweetie color. The cover of the book shows Maya wearing a white shirt with a rainbow. This was obviously overlooked in the editorial phase. ( )

I was not a fan of this one. I understand the concept and the idea of separating the two people, but it was a little too out there. It had the feel that it was trying to be a children's sci-fi book without anything to do with science fiction, i.e. futuristic indestructible grass. It didn't fit together well. Rather disappointing.

Maya & Waggers: I Have to Scoop What? is the first in a series by W.T. Kosmos. The recommended reading level is age 8 and up. At times, words seemed like they might challenge 8 year olds who are not strong readers; disappeared, centimeters, commotion are some of the words that may be tough for some readers. The story is fun and the use of the word poop is always a hit with this age group. It feels a bit didactic at times but does demonstrate the responsibility of pet care and ownership. Kids will enjoy it but nothing special here. ( )

I thought this was a good book for youngsters. It definitely shows children the responsibility that comes with having pets as well as maintaining friendships with people who are different than them. The story itself was a bit strange. I’m sure that was done on purpose to keep children’s attention and engagement in the story. I definitely think kids would find many parts of the story hilarious. I would’ve liked a few illustrations in the book to support some of the outlandish scenes. I liked the pleasant ending and think this would be a fun story for many children to read. ( )

This was a cute story. It's about Maya getting a puppy and refusing to clean up the poop. She tries various methods to weasel her way out of doing it. The thing I didn't like about the book was the overuse term "Puddin Heads". It was just overkill and I just rolled my eyes everything those words popped up. I did like the ending. ( )