The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall

For some reason, I wasn't expecting The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall to be very exciting because it seemed like a plot similar to many other books.  Was I wrong!   This is a surprisingly entertaining book about four mischievous sisters spending several weeks of their summer vacation at a posh cabin.  It explores both the differences and the ties that bind them when faced with loss, danger, and the mean Mrs. Tifton.  However, Mrs. Tifton’s prim and proper son, Jeffrey, joins the girls and takes on all the challenges that his new friends dish out.  This story is filled with humor and drama while demonstrating the roles that each of the girls takes on as part of the Penderwick family.  It was really a very enjoyable story and can also be a great family read-aloud.

Book reviewed by Michelle T., Youth Outreach Coordinator