Here's Jessica: I first read Monica Furlong’s Wise Child when I was nine and have read it almost every year since. The story takes place in Scotland, a long, long time ago. There is something about life in the Middle Ages that fascinates me – how rewarding it would be to grow your own food and milk cows and raise chickens and sew your own clothing. Maybe I should have been a farmer! Wise Child is not about farming, however. It’s a magical story about a spoiled and sullen orphan named Wise Child whose life is transformed when she is sent to live with the village healer (and possible witch), Juniper. Over the course of the book, Wise Child discovers her own inner strength (and potential supernatural abilities) and grows to love and cherish her life with Juniper. When I was nine, I wanted to go back in time and become Juniper’s apprentice. Now I appreciate the various levels of meaning in the story and the lessons Wise Child learns as she goes on her great adventure. The book is nicely paced and has a very exciting ending. You’ll definitely want to read the prequel, Juniper, which is just as good and answers any questions you might have about the wonderful and enigmatic Juniper. If only we could all be as talented as Jessica Cannon. My family knows her as an extraordinary piano teacher with a beautiful voice. We're certain she could be the next American Idol, if only we could persuade her to audition. You may have seen her on commercials for McDonald's or Olive Garden, or heard one of her many commercial voiceovers. And best of all, she loves children's books! Always has, always will. Read her recommendation, then go get that book. I know I will. She knows what she's talking about.
ohhhhhhhh sounds like I need to add another book to my list!
Posted by: Mia | May 02, 2009 at 10:48 AM