I enjoyed the book not only for the story but the great discussion points. The phrase “somewhere around the corner” is repeated throughout and symbolizes a person’s dreams for the future – and that the character had to walk around the corner themselves and go get their dreams.
I checked this book out from the library because it was both on Sonlight’s Core F reading list, as well as on My Father’s World’s library reading list. After skimming it though, I felt it was too much sadness for the girls right now…I have read some of Pearl S. Buck’s books in the past and loved them, and I really would like to read this one in the future – maybe as summer reading.
This picture book is hands down my most favorite book we’ve read so far this year. I am struggling to put into words why I liked it so much.
Grace’s Review (4th Grade): Jenny L. Cote gathers biblical information and places it into her books. I love to read it, and wish to get the whole entire series. I’m saving up my money for them. That’s how much I like them. They’re great and amazing illustrations in black, and the writing is awesome.
We are studying China right now, and this picture book created a relaxing end to the school day, giving the kids a visual of everyday life and scenery in rural China.
True to Jan Brett form, the illustrations are amazingly detailed and delicious.
Grace’s Review (4th Grade): I loved reading these. I read all six books in three days. They were exciting and educational. I learned a lot about what vets do, and what an assistant would do too.
I would have to describe this book as simple, engaging and sweet. It was well written, and for such a simple story the characterization was done just right. I was a little nervous at how the story would end, but it was very fitting.
My conclusion is that I cannot in good conscience let my children read these books – no matter how fun and how educational they are.
My favorite part about this book is the illustrations. The ending is somewhat predictable, as many folktales are, but the illustrations are what make the book.
I really liked this book. It’s short, sweet and very age level appropriate. It also packs a punch in terms of historical content. The illustrations and story line give the reader a vivid picture of what it was like to travel west as an immigrant.
The Family Book List 