Gr. 3-5. After a perfectly wonderful eighth birthday, Nell spends the next day searching the farm for her lost cat. Mishap follows disappointment, leaving Nell feeling dejected until she finds her cat and a few more than she bargained for. Little sets the story in the past (perhaps the late-nineteenth century), but if the time period is vague, many concrete details of place and relationships help bring Nell's character to life for contemporary readers. With 14 attractive, shaded-pencil drawings, this volume will particularly appeal to children who are ready for chapter books but still want plenty of pictures. A combination of good writing and innocent charm.
Carolyn PhelanCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
Review
"The gentle, heart-warming tone of this slim tale assures even quite young readers that all will be well eventually." (
Resource Links 20050901)
". . . Jean Little's chapter book has wide contemporary appeal." "This is an excellent choice for young fans of historical fiction, and for teachers or librarians looking for a good fit with an early Canadian prairie theme." "Highly recommended." (
Canadian Book Review Annual 20040408)
"The story stresses the love and generosity involved in the giving and receiving of gifts. Young readers in our consumer-driven society will find refreshing relief in the dressed-up sunflowers and new kittens." (
Canadian Literature 20041215)
"Master writer Jean Little has created another lively, likeable heroine in Nell." "Non-stop action, plenty of character revealing dialogue, and a protagonist who persists until she solves her own problems will hold the reader's attention." "Highly recommended." (
CM Magazine )
"The combination of good writing and innocent charm makes this a fine choice for early readers." (
Booklist )
