MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY
The Penderwicks on Gardam Street
by Jeanne Birdsall
This is the second installment in the Penderwick series and
I loved it just as much, maybe more, than the first one. In this book, it’s
four years later. The four Penderwick sisters again struggle with their
commitment to the Penderwick Honor code as they deal with the next stage in
their lives. As requested, four years after her death, their father agrees to
honor his late wife’s desire for him to start dating again—so he won’t be alone.
The sisters hatch a “Save Daddy Plan” which sets them on more hilarious
adventures. And we get a front row seat to their latest misadventures.
The Penderwick Honor code is sorely tested when Jane and
Skye swap homework assignments to so they can work in their strongest subjects.
Jane, in Skye’s name, writes a play that is chosen to be performed by the sixth
grade. It’s a huge event that drives Skye up a wall. Meanwhile, their new next door
neighbor figures prominently and delightfully in their collective future, with
little Batty on the forefront of that relationship. There’s also a boy/girl friendship
with hints of future dating. And a scary stranger-danger encounter. Even though you most probably will predict the
ending, it’s a total delight to read it straight on through to the satisfying end.
Highly recommended
for ages 8 to 10; even 11 and 12 year olds can enjoy it as I did. This series has an old-fashioned feel. The author wisely avoids modern technology so it won't be quickly dated. It's been called a "modern classic." But I like to think it's a return to strong family values, such as looking out for your siblings, being a responsible family member, which is perhaps at odds in our techno-centered world. I can hardly wait for the next installment, “The Penderwicks at Point Mourette.”
Information on author Jeanne Birdsall is at http://jeannebirdsall.com/
This review copy was borrowed from my local library.
Reviewed by:
Penelope Anne
Cole
Award Winning Author of Magical Matthew and Magical Mea
and Mateo Mágico (Spanish)
Award Winning Author of Magical Matthew and Magical Mea
and Mateo Mágico (Spanish)
New: Magical Mea Goes to School
For Halloween: Ten Little Tricksters
Tags:
Jeanne Birdsall, The Penderwicks on Gardam Street, Rosalind, Skye, Jane, Batty, Tommy, Nick, Hound, Asimov, Iantha Aronson, Ben, Duck, Aunt Claire, Anna, Bug Man, football, soccer, school, homework, plots, adventures, pre-teen, middle grade, romance, relationships, family, dating, games.
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