Just sayin' - a book review by Holden

I am so excited to share with you a new series here on While I'm Waiting!  My daughter, Holden, has shown interest in my blog and asked if she could write a blog post.  We weren't sure exactly what she was going to write about but then she started reading book after book.  I suggested she write something about what she was reading about and that's where we came up with "Just sayin'" - a book review from an 11 year-olds perspective.  Each time she finishes a book, she'll post her review here.  It's been so much fun working with her and seeing her excitement!

Drum roll please...here's her first book review!

Title:  The Secret Garden

Author:  retold from the Frances Hodgson Burnett original by Martha Hailey

Illustrator:  Lucy Corvino

Describe the book in a couple of sentences (without giving away the ending!):
A girl named Mary had to move to London to stay with her uncle after her parents died. While there she uncovers a secret garden and makes new friends.  She tries to find out how to bring the secret garden back to life.

What did you enjoy most about this book?
A character named Dickon.  He loves all animals and even has a pet fox named Captain. Dickon is like a pet whisperer.

What do you think the author was trying to accomplish with this book?
I think she was trying to capture the beauty and feelings of the garden but most of all she is trying to send you a message that you can do anything if you put your mind to it.

What was your favorite character and why?  Tell us something about them.
My favorite character is Mary because she is so brave and confident in herself.  She's so daring and willing to try new things.

What scene do you remember best?  Why is it your favorite?
I remember when Mary was trying to find out where a noise was coming from.  She came face to face with Mrs. Medlock who said, "You didn't hear anything of the sort.  You come along back to your own nursery or I'll box your ears."

Did any parts make you LOL?  Describe one.
I thought it was funny when Colin thought there was a lump on his back but really he was just imagining that it was there.

If there are illustrations, how did they help tell the story?
They help you visualize the story better but when I read the book, I saw it like a movie in my head.

Were you satisfied with the ending?  Why or why not?
Yes, because it was a complete surprise how it ended.

How long is the book?
145 short pages since the words are in big type.

Did you find the book a quick read?  Why or why not?
Yes, it was very easy.  It took me three days counting breaks.

Did you like the book?  Why or why not?
Yes, I loved how Mary found the garden.

Would you change anything about this book?
No, I wouldn't change a single word.

Who would you recommend to read this book?  Boys, girls, tweens, etc.
I would say 3rd grade and up.
[I looked up the book and it's recommended for ages 11-13.]

Is this book part of a series?
No, it is not part of a series but I wish it was!

What is one thing you would ask the author if you could talk to him or her?
I would ask her how she found inspiration to write this book.

And...now for my favorite part!  Here's Holden's overall rating of The Secret Garden...

Thank you, Holden, for a fabulous book review!  I can't wait till you finish your next book!

If you have any questions or recommendations for Holden please leave them in the comments!  She's really hoping she can answer a question or two! ;)

We hope you have a fabulous day!  Gig 'em and God bless! 

Holly & Holden

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I would love to have you link up with the Waiting on...Wednesday link-up - a place where you can link up what you are waiting on, going through, making, anything - as long as it's family-friendly!  :)  It's open weekly Wednesday through Saturday! 

linking up with:

          

           

           

Modern Mrs. Darcy

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