Customer Reviews

Samantha's Special Talent (American Girl)

5 star:		(4)
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This is another in the American Girls Short Stories series about Samantha Parkington, a nine-year-old orphan girl living in the America of 1904. In this book, when Samatha sees the sad state that the public library has fallen into, she decides to do something to help - she decides to organize a talent show! However, organizing the show takes up all of Samantha's time, leaving her no time to prepare something to perform. Unable to think of a special talent that she can show off at the show, Samantha begins to feel bad. But, it appears that she has not realized just what a good talent she does have...

The final chapter of this book is a fun look at vaudeville (very popular in 1904), and has instructions for learning how to juggle! My twelve-year-old daughter enjoyed this book a lot, and I liked the message that it taught. We both recommend this book to you.

This is the last short story I needed. The book arrived fast and in excellent condition. Just wish it was with the dress. Most American Girl books have something to pass along to girls' and this one is the same. You find what you're good at and do your best with it. Everyone has something to offer in life.

History, a great story and an authentic historical craft! Not only that, but just the right size for girl-sized hands. A+++++++ Cannot be beat!

"Samantha noticed that her posters look plain compared to Ida's, which had fancy lettering and boarders. 'How do you make yours look so pretty?' 'I've always liked drawing,' Ida said with a shrug. 'It's just a talent, I suppose.' I wish I knew what my talent was, Samantha thought." (Buckey, 15/16)

"Samantha's Special Talent," written by Sarah Masters Buckey, illustrates the story of Samantha Parkington, a lively nine-year-old girl growing up during the Victorian Age, who has decided to organize a talent show in which to earn money for a new town library. As Samantha assists the new French girl, Marguerite, with her special talent, as well as attempts to create a magnificent show, Samantha begins to wonder if she has a special talent of her own. However, as the talent show comes to an end, her leadership abilities prove to be true.

I really liked how Mrs. Buckey portrayed Samantha in the situation of discovering her own, special talent, as well as using Marguerite as the example of trying to overcome fears and such. Although the story is forty-one pages, "Samantha's Special Talent" provides a good example about discovering the true abilities inside you, which is something all kids can relate to.

Overall, I give this book an A+ and highly recommend it to kids ages eight and up, especially to girls who lack the self-confidence needed for when they grow older.