Age 04-08. 5 Stars. This riveting story gently introduces the pain and evil involved in World War II, without going into graphic detail about the horrors of the war. Johanna’s courage and loyalty are very admirable, and they seem to grow naturally in the context of her family’s values of love and courtesy. The book is written at a transitional reader’s level and (unlike most war stories) is appropriate for precocious pre-readers.

Age 04-08. 4 Stars. The story isn’t quite as good as A Toad for Tuesday, but it is lighthearted, funny, and suspenseful enough to hold the attention of a child transitioning into chapter books… This is not a must-read, but it’s an enjoyable fantasy adventure, rooted in positive values of friendship, kindness, and courage.

Age 04-08. 4 Stars. Stanley is an ordinary boy whose life changes when a large bulletin board falls on him during the night, flattening him to a thickness of a half-inch…. This whimsical fantasy is entirely enjoyable, and what it lacks in depth of plot and character development (no pun intended), it makes up for in imagination.

Age 04-08. 4 Stars. This story rounds out the trilogy begun with My Father’s Dragon… This is more of the same fun fare that characterized the first two books, capitalizing on the mystique of dragons which makes Elmer’s participation in their lives quite a romantic adventure. Again, Elmer would set a better example by confiding in his parents, but the lighthearted and fanciful nature of this adventure may help young readers interpret his behavior without emulating his secrecy.

Age 04-08. 4 Stars. A continuation of the lighthearted fantasy begun in My Father’s Dragon… It would be better for his adventure take place with his parents’ knowledge and blessing, but this is still an exciting, interesting and funny story excursion.

Age 04-08. This story is masterfully written, in very short chapters that each pack a punch and end with a cliffhanger. The plot points are simple enough that young children will be able to follow them, but clever enough that adults will enjoy the author’s absurd sense of humor. It’s perfect for children transitioning out of picture books. Published in 1947, it reflects mainly wholesome values of kindness, courage, and generosity, with a naivete that will appeal to children who enjoy fantasies.

Age 04-08. 3 Stars. This is the story of Libby Mitchell, a young European-American girl in Michigan during the mid-1800’s, whose best friend is Potawatomi. When other settlers become jealous the Potawatomi’s wealth, they force them to leave their ancestral lands. Because she is visiting her friend when this occurs, Libby is accidentally taken away with the tribe… Historical events are basically accurate, and the danger is exciting without being overwhelming to younger readers. The Mitchell family, particularly Libby’s father, evidence strong interfamily relationships and genuine friendship with the Potawatomi family. This would make a nice addition to a home library, or at least a good supplement for a history lesson.