The Penderwicks

{A summer tale of four sisters, two rabbits and a very interesting boy}

{by Jeanne Birdsall}

Always being in search of a good book that doesn't make me sad through the entire thing*, I borrowed this book on the recommendation of my mom. I was picking through her library and pulled this out. She told me that I should read it. I would love it. Mama knows best. (Who do you think bought all my The Baby-sitters Club books back in the day?)

The Penderwicks is wonderful! Maybe the Newberry award medal should have given it away. I am only about half way through and I find myself laughing out loud, gasping and covering my mouth, and talking to the characters. I would have adored this book when I was in third or fourth grade needing to stay up late to read and begging to go to the library or book store to get the other books in the series. If you are looking for a book to read to your kids or just want an easy, fun, summer read I highly recommend The Penderwicks, even if you are out of its target audience.

Do you have any recommendations for me after I finish this? =]

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*I once asked a librarian to help me find a book that wasn't sad all the way through. She kind of looked at me quizzically. I explained that I read for enjoyment and I don't enjoy feeling sorrow for the tragically melancholy characters all the way through the book, especially if there was not a super happy ending. I think I stumped her for a moment. After pulling several different books from the shelf (somewhat like Mr. Ollivander does with the wands in Harry Potter) she offered me the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich, which at the time only had 4 or 5 books but now is up to 16. I think I stopped at 3. ;]