Monday, March 12, 2007

The New Girl...And Me

Robbins,Jacqui. The New Girl… And Me. Illustrated by Matt Phelan. Atheneum/Richard Jackson Books, 2006 ISBN – 13: 978-0-689-86468-1$16.95. Ages 4-7.

This engaging story of a typical kindergartener highlights the conflict behind making new friends. Mia, who tells her story through the first person, has many doubts about becoming acquainted with the new girl in school. She finally realizes that even though it may be hard or scary to get to know someone new, it is worth it in the end. Phelan’s use of watercolor helps to create a cartoon-like image that is charming and enjoyable to read. Creative pictures allow readers to feel involved in the story, and the text is nicely incorporated into the white space. The New Girl… And Me is Robbins debut book, and demonstrates the potential for more great pieces of writing in the future. Although this book is for younger children, it makes a wonderful addition to any book collection because of its well written style and the lesson within.

Aimee Calevch, BGSU student

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