This funny and engaging 192-page book is geared toward readers 8-12.
E.J. (Emma Jean) is the 10-year old main character in the book. Each chapter starts with a diary entry that leads into the rest of the chapter in narrative form. E.J.'s daydreams, that are quite imaginative, are included, as well.
Emma Jean lives in a small town and aspires to "bigger and better" things, but learns how important she is in her community. E.J. dreams of glory as a NASCAR driver, an airline attendant, and even Queen Esther! Her parents teach and remind her to not ignore all of the great things that happen in real life. What a good lesson for us all to learn!
A turning point in that revelation is when she is chosen to be an angel in the Christmas play. She feels like she has "lost" the major role of Mary and is discouraged and disappointed. With the encouragement of family and friends, she comes to the realization that she does have an important role, not only in the play, but in neighborhood, as well.
She learns and lives the true meaning of Christmas and Christ's message of love and forgiveness. What a wonderful message for children to read! All of this is placed in a setting with dialogue that is entertaining and humorous. We were laughing out loud many times while reading the book. The only crticism I have is that the sibling rivalry, in my opinion, was taken a bit far in the name calling and nastiness. I did skip over those parts when reading the book aloud with my children. All parents know of the disagreements that children have with their siblings. I just would have liked a bit less of the crude behavior in the story. That being said, there is resolution and much forgiveness and love shown in the story. :-)
My daughter will be 10 next month. It is rare to find a book where the main character is the same age as you! The author has a gift of writing just like a child. You really feel like you're reading a young girl's diary, and that is where and how this book appeals to young girls.
Watch this video to learn more about the series:
The book is normally priced at $5.99, but is on sale now for only $4.49. Book #2 in the series, "Church Camp Chaos" is due out in March 2014! :-)
Don't miss a thing! Subscribe to Home to 4 Kiddos by Email and get our posts sent right to your inbox!
1 comment:
Lisa, thanks for posting your review. It was a blessing to me! Happy reading!
Post a Comment