DAHLIA
Farrar, Straus, and Giroux 2003
Written and illustrated by Barbara McClintock
Looks can be deceiving! When Charlotte gets a delicate doll from her aunt Edme, she is not too happy. She tells the doll that she and Bruno, her bear, 'like digging in dirt and climbing trees. No tea parties, no being pushed around in frilly prams. You'll just have to get used to the way we do things.” Much to Charlotte and Bruno's surprise, Dahlia seems to like getting dirty while making mud cakes and racing wagons. But at the end of the day, Charlotte's aunt arrives for a visit and wants to see how Dahlia's doing... and Charlotte is in for another surprise.
Charming, detailed illustrations accompany this sweet story about acceptance, and making room for a new friend. ( Ages 5 - 8 )
*Boston Globe/Horn Book Honor award
*Parents' Choice Silver Medal
*Connecticut Book Honor Award
*Riverbank Review Children's Book of Distinction
*Starred reviews in Booklist, Publishers
Weekly, Kirkus, Bulletin of
the Center for Children's Books, School Library
Journal, Faith & Family
Magazine
“In a doll story that will win over even confirmed tomboys, McClintock introduces a Victorian child who, despite her frock and pinafore, enjoys digging in the dirt and climbing trees. McClintock's detailed tableaux conveying the garb, architecture, and furnishings of the era perfectly fit the mood of the story, their delicate lines and coloring belied by the robust action they convey. A timeless charmer.”— Starred, Publishers Weekly
“Charlotte is a girl of long ago who has all the qualities we encourage today - curiosity, confidence, and strength. She is surrounded by supportive women - an aunt who invites her to play freely, and a mother who gives her daughter a safety net from which to grow. Dahlia will be loved by young girls who are forging their first friendships, both with real and imaginary friends.” — Starred, School Library Journal
Your children will delight in Charlotte's spunk and curiosity, even
as they learn with her that you should never judge a doll - or a person
- by their appearance.”
— Starred, Books of Wonder News
“McClintock delightfully juxtaposes spirited Charlotte within the old-fashioned setting, capturing, without words, the personalities of the toy companions... Dahlia simply blooms with charm.” — Booklist