Can Natasha Keep Up With the Doll?

I'm so happy to share one of Margo's latest book finds with you, especially because it's by an author I always enjoy. I recently read this story to her, and she was enchanted by the pictures and words. Of course, after reading Babushka’s Doll by Patricia Polacco Margo wants the same doll. It made me laugh, since it seemed like she might have missed the point of the book. We don’t have anything like it, but that doll could come in handy!

Natasha is an energetic girl, and she keeps Babushka (grandmother in Russian) busy by constantly talking to her and wanting to be entertained. Babushka doesn’t get a moment’s peace! After spending an afternoon with Margo I can understand how tired her grandmother is from all of the activity! When Natasha’s Babushka leaves for the store she lets Natasha play with her very special doll, one she only played with once when she was a young girl. Little does Natasha know, the doll is going to come to life, and there's a reason you only play with it once. The doll’s energy makes Natasha exhausted! Margo loves dolls and stuffed animals, so the storyline is right up her alley. She claps her hands with glee when she sees what Natasha has to do for the doll! Now if only Margo would learn the same lesson as Natasha and entertain herself a little more! It's a wonderful book with a great message.

Check out our interview with Patricia Polacco! 
You can also stop by our Village Story Peddlers post to meet the author. :)

Happy reading! ~ F

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What's Behind the Attic Wall?

Maggie's learned how not to be friendly. Ever since her parents died, she's been shipped off to so many boarding schools that she's got the routine down. So when she's sent to live with her two strict aunts, she's not the least bit surprised when they find her disagreeable. After strange Uncle Morris drops her off at the old house known as Adelphi Hills Academy, which resembles all of the other gloomy girls' schools she's been through, she's certain she'll hate it just the same. The house seems very quiet, and Maggie thinks the other girls must be hiding, playing a trick on her. But she's not easily fooled, and who cares anyway? Her aunts will probably send her away as soon as they realize how rotten she is. Since Maggie doesn't play with dolls, she shares her world with her imaginary friends the Backwoods girls. She enjoys walking them through the house, showing them everything she "owns". They're always enamored by her, which makes Maggie feel less lonely. When she begins hearing voices coming from behind the walls, she's not sure what to make of them. Her aunts think she's delusional, but Uncle Morris hints that he believes her, and even though his words seem like nonsense, Maggie's curiosity about the voices reveals a secret that may open her heart. Where are the voices coming from? Will Maggie be able to stay at Adelphi Hills or will her aunts kick her out? What does Uncle Morris know? You will have to read this enchanting story to find out!

Behind the Attic Wall by Sylvia Cassedy is one of my favorite stories. The writing is brilliant, and it's impossible not to feel drawn in by the scenes in the old house; there's so much mystery behind the walls! Maggie is an intriguing character, one you can't help but feel sorry for and, at the same time, dislike. It's easy to understand why she acts the way she does, but there were times when I would cringe because I knew she was getting herself in deep. I love the whimsical ways of Uncle Morris, and the secret Maggie uncovers will keep you turning the pages. I recommend this book for young readers in fifth grade and up and all those who enjoy being captivated by unique characters.

Has anyone else read Behind the Attic Wall? We'd love to hear your thoughts!

Happy reading!
~L

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Answer to Monday's Riddle: It's a Doll's Life...

Excellent guessing Riddlers! This week, we're hanging out with a couple dolls! Lizzy's review will be captivating, and Friday we've got something tricky up our sleeves, so be sure to check back! See you all around the book block. ; ) ~ F

In so many ways we're just like you, getting dressed up is something to do. Designed to speak or sit very still, it all depends on the play of one's will. Some are fancy, others are plain; there are those that seem evil, and some are to blame. Like Talking Tina, she's a killer to meet, perhaps Strawberry Shortcake would be more sweet. Whether born in a patch or sprung from the mind; we're crafted with care to depict the divine. Our perfection is cast and molded in detail, then put on shelves in a world full of retail. Holding our breath, we wait for who's right, wishing for one with extraordinary sight. Spend time with us, for we're always game, and we love to be called by our true made-up name.

What are we? Answer: Dolls!

Make time to riddle and rhyme!
62 original riddles and illustrations 

Fairday's Riddles: Volume I 

Available in all e-book formats
Download for only .99¢ on Smashwords

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Monday's Riddle: Someone to Play With...

Hello Riddlers! Can you guess our theme this week? I've had lots to play with, and they were all very special. ; ) ~ F

In so many ways we're just like you, getting dressed up is something to do. Designed to speak or sit very still, it all depends on the play of one's will. Some are fancy, others are plain; there are those that seem evil, and some are to blame. Like Talking Tina, she's a killer to meet, perhaps Strawberry Shortcake would be more sweet. Whether born in a patch or sprung from the mind; we're crafted with care to depict the divine. Our perfection is cast and molded in detail, then put on shelves in a world full of retail. Holding our breath, we wait for who's right, wishing for one with extraordinary sight. Spend time with us, for we're always game, and we love to be called by our true made-up name.

What are we?

I gave you a clue! 

Clue! I'm in this picture

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