From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 1—A boy in a family of nine lovingly describes their creaky old house. The favorite oak tree, the handmade drawings on the wall, the quiet window seat, the frayed rug, the claw-foot tub, the trapdoor, and the banister that is ideal for sliding down more than make up for the cracks, chips, leaky roof, and sloping floors. When the front doorknob suddenly falls off in Pa's hands, a simple repair job almost turns into a major renovation project. While the family members all get caught up with their big ideas and elaborate plans, baby sister Lizzie simply fixes the doorknob. And everyone is relieved to discover that they really love their house just the way it is. The clever, rhyming text bounces along with a perfect cadence. The ink, watercolor, and pencil illustrations enhance the telling, and readers will take great pleasure in poring over the many amusing details, especially those that foreshadow the satisfying ending.—Rachel Kamin, North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, Highland Park, IL END
Review
"Each line adds a layer of rich storytelling...Chesworth’s vibrant and detailed illustrations, including double-page-cros-section of the house, lingering and revisiting. This ramshackle mess of an abode has real character and happily contains its frolicking family." -- Kirkus Reviews
