I think the early chapter book is an area where many kids and parents struggle. Kids are ready for more than an early reader, but chapter books can be overwhelming. This is a critical time to get kids excited about books - so in comes the early chapter book to the rescue!
When done well, these books can really inspire a love of reading in your child. Hope you enjoy this weeks selections and happy reading!
To see all my early chapter book recommendations, visit my blog at www.onegreatbook.com
Title: Lulu Walks the Dogs
Author: Judith Viorst
Target: Kindergarten - Grade 2
Series: Yes
What this book is about:
A sequel to one of my favorite books, Lulu and the Brontosaurus, this book leaves us with the new and improved Lulu, who now needs money for something she is “ALWAYS and FOREVER going to want!” As the title would suggest, dog walking becomes the way to earn that cash. However, (and isn’t there always a however) walking three dogs isn’t as easy as it first appears! Will Lulu be able to accept help from Fleischman, the goody-goody, perfect boy from down the street or will the girl who always gets what she wants have to give up on her big dream?
Why I love this book:
Lulu is such a delightfully willfull and entitled character that her over the top antics simply add fun and humor to the story!
I really enjoy the way that the author pulls herself out of the story to talk to the reader and make sure they are getting her comic turns. She does it just enough to keep the reader on their toes and laughing. The author also inserts several variations of the money song throughout the book, which are quite silly, and my daughter had to run out and sing each one to me!
The illustrations by Lane Smith are fabulous, especially how he has captured the personality of each dog that Lulu has to walk, or in some cases who walk her! And of course, how can I forget a book that has a time out and overtime section, just to make the reader feel that they earned a little more of the story.
Who this book is for:
Perfect for kids just starting chapter books. Lots of illustrations and shorter chapters.
Final thoughts:
As my daughter would say, “when is the next Lulu book?” When, oh when, Judith Viorst?
