Customer Reviews

Countess's Calamity

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This is a charming and original entry in the very cliched group of children's books about dolls and/or miniatures. It is not among the cream of the crop, but still worth reading.

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"The Countess's Calamity" (Tales from the Box, v.1)

Written & Illustrated by Sally Gardner

(Bloomsbury Books, 2003)

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The first volume in a charming but short-lived series (which so far has only gone into two books, total, including the sequel, "Boolar's Big Day Out") The story has many familiar elements, notably genteel, hobbitlike mice and a bunch of talking dolls, whom the mice take in and shelter, ala "A Cricket In Times Square." Although these are familiar ideas, they are handled well, and the story has a nice, solid feel. Best of all are the cast of characters who, although not tremendously well-developed, are enjoyable, particularly for families that like to read out loud and make up lots of voices... This volume's strongest character, the haughty, self-centered doll called the Countess provides a rawther delightful opportunity to ham it up.Also, the artwork includes faded gray photos of an actual mouse/dollhouse made by the author, used as the background for the cartoon scenes... which is kind of cool. Both books are fun, and worth giving a spin - strong emphasis on learning lessons, social cooperation and personal growth. (Joe Sixpack, ReadThatAgain children's book reviews)