Customer Reviews

Up and Down the Scratchy Mountains

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I saw a description of this book on Ms. Snyder's website, and was intrigued enough to go hunt it down. What a lucky find that was! From beginning to end, the book delighted me. The characters are well-drawn and realistic without being predictable; the plot is natural and flows smoothly; the book is one of those rare "one sitting" volumes where you know you should be doing something productive, but you would rather finish reading. If I had children, this would become one of those favorite bedtime stories. But even without the excuse of little ones to read it to, I adored this book. Highly recommended for all.

Up and Down the Scratchy Mountains proved delightful. It was a wonderful blend of old and new. The spunky heroine had me at hello. There were surprises at every turn and delicious use of language, including some fun songs created by the main character during her journey. I'd recommend this satisfying tale to readers of all ages. Can't wait for Ms. Snyder's next novel!

Are you ready to go on an adventure up and down the Scratchy Mountains? Then come along with Lucy, a young milkmaid determined to find her mom, who used to live up there. It's a fun and funny trek, and easy to take. All you have to pack is this book and your sense of whimsy!

Lucy's mother has been gone for years, and while her father and older sister have quietly adapted to life without her, Lucy is certain that she can find her mom and convince her to come back home. She packs lightly, leaves a note for her sister Sally, and sets out. Meanwhile, her best friend, Wynston is about to go on a journey of his own. This reluctant prince has been told he has to find a princess to marry. Suddenly, he decides to shake off the expectations of his royal father and the crown, and he leaves the castle on his favorite horse, Sprout, on a self-imposed quest to find Lucy instead.

Forget the idea of a mild, meek milkmaid - Snyder's young protagonist is strong, smart, and sure-footed. Lucy remains undeterred, even when the going gets rough. Optimistic and fun-loving, she is apt to break into song at any time, either giving voice to the songs her mother taught her when she was little or spontaneously singing about whatever she's doing or seeing. Though the terrain is tricky, Lucy always manages to find her way. She's also a bit of a Pied Piper, attracting a furry little creature she names Cat (that's really a prairie dog!) and trying to take care of him as well as Rosebud, the cow she brought along from her farm at the last minute.

Laurel Snyder's first novel for young readers, Up and Down the Scratchy Mountains, or, The Search for a Suitable Princess, is full of promise and levity. Snyder has created a fun story which easily moves back and forth between the adventures of the two leading characters, who meet additional silly characters to help them along the way. Detailed, captioned black-and-white illustrations by Greg Call compliment the story well, as do the foreshadowing chapter titles. (Example: "The Short Cut, the Long Cut, and the Curious Storm.") With wit, adventure, and an ending that will leave readers content and yearning to hug their parents and/or siblings, Up and Down the Scratchy Mountains makes for a great read-aloud at home or in the classroom.

My daughter and I LOVED this book. Wonderfully unique, full bodied characters who grow through their challenges, fun adventure, a little magic, and a lovely read. Could not put it down. This is probably a great read-aloud for the 1-3 grades. Can't wait to try that!