Kiddie Lit

[Mary Ann]

ER wrote:

> I recommend reading one of the Famous Five books (there were lots) 
if 
> you enjoy a good laugh.

<snip spiffy character assessments>

Yes, a good laugh, and a good groan!  I came across the Famous Five 
books when I was about 10 and living in Monreal, and I loved them.  
In fact I spent many weeks' pocket money buying more adventures 
whenever possible, and I even had 3 Dutch versions from when I went 
to The Olde Country to visit relatives.  Yes, I had them in two 
languages, sad little bugger that I am.

I recently reread one of the books (they live in my daughter's 
bookcase; yes, I kept them) and they are *so* awful!  But chances are 
that, once my kids are old enough to read them, they'll love them, 
too.  And they gave me hours of entertainment when I was young, and 
that's the important point, isn't it?

I also indulged in the Bobbsey Twins and Nancy Drew before that, but 
I didn't bring those books with me when I moved to England.  Hey, I 
have *some* pride. ;)

Books from my youth that I did bring with me are all my Judy Blume 
books.  I recently reread one of those books (Iggy's House) as well, 
and was stunned by Blume's excellent storytelling and emotional 
storylines.  I'm glad I kept these books because none of my 
contemporaries in England have heard of Blume.

Oh, and my Little House books.  I reread those very year, and must 
buy some new copies soon as they're literally falling apart.

Mary Ann :)