This book told a simple story because there was not a great number of sub-plots or ongoing intrigues outside of the main story line. Nevertheless, it explored the concepts of poverty, family, and friendship in ways that upper elementary students can understand, without softening the power behind those ideas.
The artwork was very well done. Janet Hamlin created pencil drawings that really captured the mood of the accompanying section of the story. I only wish that there were a few more of them. There were 10 total, which can be considered a lot for a chapter book, but they contained so much emotion, that it would have added to the story to have a few more. As it was, this was a good book about a third grade child trying to fit in at her new school, but trying to stay loyal to her family at the same time.
Why is it called "the girl with 500 middle names" and do you think it would be appropriate for a third grader since it is written about a third grader? The cover looks interesting.....the book I read,Shiloh, had no illustrations at all and sometimes I wonder if art would have added more to the book and given the reader a better understanding of the characters and setting.
ReplyDeleteThe title is absolutely intriguing. I would like to ask as well why she has 500 middle names. It's a cute plot and presents a great idea of helping others.
ReplyDeleteI think the book sounds very interesting because I want to know what lengths Janie goes to in order to help her family. I also want to see these emotional illustrations.
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