Pearlie and Great Aunt Garnet by Wendy Harmer
Random
House, 2009.
ISBN 9781741664348.
(Ages 6-9) When she discovers that it is Opal's birthday, Pearlie the
Park Fairy decides to organise a surprise party for all of the
creatures from Jubilee Park. Jasper the
Elf is not sure about
inviting the rats, Scrag and Mr Flea. On discovering that they are not
invited,
the rats decide to plan their own party. Both Pearlie and the rats head
to
Great Aunt Garnet's fairy shop to order their party goodies. Whilst
Pearlie
orders a cake 'with sugar and spice and everything nice', the rats
request 'the
biggest, yuckiest cake ever', filled instead with 'slugs and snails and
puppy
dog tails'. On the day of the party, a mix up with the cakes turns out
to be a
blessing in disguise.
Harmer proves that, not only can she use her sense of humour
to appeal to adults but she is equally capable of writing for children
as well.
The simple story, interspersed with rhyming verses, is engaging and
humorous.
Readers see the importance of friendship, inclusion, planning, sharing
and the
benefit of being given a second chance. The Pearlie stories are
didactic yet
hold much appeal for young children. Pearlie
and Great Aunt Garnet includes party invitations, door hanger and
suggestions
for party games and decorations. Together with the clever marketing of
this
hard cover book, Gypsy Taylor's vibrant illustrations make this an
attractively
presented book which will be in demand by emergent female readers or
girls
wishing to be read aloud to by an adult.
Jo Schenkel