FAVORITE FIVE
My Favorite Five Children's Books
In a regular rotation, I go back and read books from my childhood. Though many are dear to me here are my five favorites.:)
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Sweet in the purest meaning of the word. Every time I read it, I'm swept away by what I call rich simplicity. I love all the characters, who seem like they are really living somewhere over in rural England at this very moment. The way Edwards puts sentences together is so pretty; her word choices so lovely. Somehow, in the way she describes each scene I feel I am really there: my hands in the warm dirt as Mandy works in her garden; my face hitting the cool sheets as she snuggles in her cozy attic bedroom; my senses taking in unfamiliar surroundings as she convalesces through her illness. I am both Mandy herself and rooting her on the whole time. At the end, when Mandy is experiencing her first Christmas in the mansion... touching and unbelievable. Plus... it's written by Julie Andrews! She's brilliant.
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This book is truly timeless and probably the most underrated on this list. It's set in 1600s Connecticut, when America was so different, but it's just as fresh as if the story is unfolding right now. At the same time, Speare fully immerses me into the daily patterns of life back then, making them appear natural and not romanticized. The writing itself is crisp and vibrant; the narrative unpredictable and emotional, but never sugary or stupid. Kit, the main character, was probably the actual inspiration for Elizabeth from POTC. Speare builds Kit's character so well that I know of her worth and strength even when Kit doesn't yet know it herself. The themes are serious (courage in the face of widespread panic, and love in the face of hateful judgment) but these heavy elements are handled elegantly and respectfully. This book really stays with me each time I finish it.
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When I was little, I loved to imagine training for the arts, set on the path to becoming a great performer. From the very first page this story draws me in to that exciting place in my heart. Set in Britain in the early 1900s, it follows three orphans adopted as sisters, and because they are poor, sent to train and earn money at The Children's Academy of Dancing and Stage Training. Each girl has her own talents and struggles; the supporting characters encourage each of their aspirations through lovely character interactions. I like that it never encourages a view of the girls as stardom-driven narcissists, which is probably more a modern-day stereotype a la "Fame" and such. The girls simply love their family and work hard to support each other. Overall it's a sweet picture of childhood, both with its trials and warm, cozy moments. Also it is very British, containing terms I don't really understand (such as descriptions of clothing) but love to read anyway. The writing style is warm and descriptive yet earnest and even serious, with a lot of depth. And the descriptions of their grand dance and stage productions are magical.
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Once, my piano teacher told me there's no such thing as "easy" music because a true master treats even the simplest songs with the greatest care. That is how I feel about this book. MacLachlan's narrative is a master class in telling a deeply meaningful story with clarity and grace. Even though it's written from the point of view of a young girl, Anna, the plot and details are so rich that I never feel a lack of perspective. The American prairie is a beautiful and strong presence throughout, which I love, and MacLachlan contrasts the prairie with Sarah's homeland of Maine to great effect. The dialogue is simple but substantial - sentimental but not simpering. Reading this book is like a breath of fresh air, clearing away noise and busyness and focusing on what it means to work hard, to appreciate the loveliness in simple moments, and to love your family. Also the little boy Caleb is precious.
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With the exception of Harry Potter, Holes is the most brilliantly complex story I've ever read. How did he think of all its layers and then weave them together so beautifully? Set in Texas, which I love, and written in a clean, clear style. Probably also the most un-boring book I have ever read. I care about all the characters and feel like each one is designed with great purpose and meaning. The plot is suspenseful and rewards the reader with powerful outcomes - I get chills every time Stanley and Zero make it to the top of God's Thumb. Hilarious, touching, achingly sad, and fascinating - just completely unique. I never get tired of it. Check out the movie, too - probably the best book-to-movie adaptation I've seen (cause Sachar wrote the screenplay).
Btw I just realized that The Witch of Blackbird Pond, Sarah, Plan and Tall, and Holes all won the Newberry Medal!
honorable mentions:
Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh (1964)
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi (1990)
Beverly Cleary books: Fifteen (1956), The Luckiest Girl (1958), Jean and Johnny (1959), Sister of the Bride (1963)
A Time of Angels by Karen Hesse (1995)
Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh (1964)
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi (1990)
Beverly Cleary books: Fifteen (1956), The Luckiest Girl (1958), Jean and Johnny (1959), Sister of the Bride (1963)
A Time of Angels by Karen Hesse (1995)
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