Blue Daisy by Helen Frost

How I Heard About It:
*During #virtualALA2020, I was able to get an electronic version of this early elementary school novel which came out in March of 2020.

What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:

1.  *The story opens with characters Sam and Katie finding a stray dog.

2.  *Each character tells their version of the story in alternating chapters.  

3.  *Sam and Katie want to keep the dog safe from a couple of sets of "evil" twins.

4.  *Once they get the dog in their possession, they make a mistake which turns the dog against them.

5.  *The kids must take responsibility for their actions and come to agreement with other children in the neighborhood; all for the good of the central character Blue Daisy.  

What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
1.  *I enjoyed the alternating chapters of prose and free verse.  Each character had their own voice and this format worked wonderfully.  

2.  *I was happy to see the chapter book was set up for early elementary readers with a real chapter book feeling to it.  

3. *I'm a dog lover so I enjoyed the story of the children and their quest of love toward the dog.  

4.  *Even though the story is quite simple, there are some important themes and life-lessons that would promote great discussion. 

5.  *I know that many young readers will be enthralled by the story of Blue Daisy and her adventures in the neighborhood.  

Who Should Read It:
*I don't normally get to categorize a middle-grade book for readers in grades two and above, but this is the perfect story for the young reader.  They will definitely feel like they are reading a chapter book like the "big kids".  A cute dog story that should be in all elementary classrooms.  Happy Reading!  


Rating:  3 STARS out of 5 Stars