Step into the whimsical world of Ivy & Bean, where two seven-year-old girls turn a quiet cul-de-sac into a playground of mischief and imagination! Written by Annie Barrows and illustrated by Sophie Blackall, this beloved children’s chapter book series captures the magic of an unlikely friendship between a bookish dreamer and a rambunctious adventurer. With over 8 million copies sold, Ivy & Bean invites young readers to laugh, learn, and embrace the joy of being true to oneself.
Perfect for kids aged 6–9, the series blends humor, heart, and relatable life lessons, making it a staple for fans of Junie B. Jones or Clementine. Whether it’s casting spells or digging for dinosaur bones, Ivy and Bean’s adventures are a delightful escape into childhood creativity.
How Ivy & Bean Began
Annie Barrows dreamed up Ivy & Bean in 2003, inspired by her own childhood and her daughters’ quirky antics. Drawing from memories of parental nudging to befriend ‘nice’ kids, Barrows crafted a story about two opposites who discover they’re perfect together. The first book, published in 2006 by Chronicle Books, introduced the dynamic duo on Pancake Court, with Sophie Blackall’s charming illustrations bringing their world to life. Barrows’ goal was simple: create a modern take on classic friendship tales like Betsy-Tacy, infused with humor and a touch of rebellion.
The Heart of Ivy & Bean
The series spans 12 books, each brimming with hilarious escapades. In Ivy & Bean (Book 1), the girls meet and overcome their initial dislike, teaming up to prank Bean’s bossy sister, Nancy, with a magical spell that goes gloriously awry. Ivy & Bean and the Ghost That Had to Go (Book 2) sees them tackling a haunted school bathroom, blending spooky fun with clever problem-solving. Ivy & Bean Break the Fossil Record (Book 3) follows their quest to become the youngest paleontologists ever, unearthing ‘ancient’ bones in Bean’s backyard. Finally, Ivy & Bean Get to Work! (Book 12) explores a chaotic Career Day where treasure-hunting dreams lead to unexpected lessons.
Set in the fictional Pancake Court, the series celebrates themes of friendship, individuality, and creativity. Ivy, the quiet aspiring witch, and Bean, the wild prankster, learn that differences make their bond stronger. Barrows’ witty dialogue and Blackall’s expressive art capture the chaos and joy of childhood, while subtle lessons about empathy and teamwork shine through. The stories’ lighthearted mischief—think potions, pranks, and record-breaking schemes—keeps readers hooked, with a reading level ideal for early chapter book fans.
Why Ivy & Bean Resonates
Ivy & Bean has left a lasting mark on children’s literature, praised for its authentic portrayal of young girls who are smart, flawed, and unapologetically themselves. The series’ Netflix adaptation and a musical show its broad appeal, while reviews from The Horn Book and Kirkus laud its humor and heart. Parents and kids alike love how it champions creativity over conformity, encouraging independent play and bold ideas. For many, Ivy & Bean is a gateway to a lifelong love of reading, proving that even the smallest adventures can have a big impact.
- About Ivy & Bean
- Published: 2006–2021
- Books: 12
- Awards: ALA Notable Children’s Books
- Adaptations: Netflix film series, musical
Grab Ivy & Bean and dive into a world of laughter, friendship, and endless adventure! Whether you’re a parent seeking a fun read-aloud or a young reader craving a new favorite, this series promises a wild ride with two unforgettable friends.