Princess Posey and the Perfect Present (review)

Abstract

Reviewed by: Princess Posey and the Perfect Present Kate Quealy-Gainer, Assistant Editor Greene, Stephanie. Princess Posey and the Perfect Present; illus. by Stephanie Roth Sisson. Putnam, 2011. [96p]. ISBN 978-0-399-25462-8 $12.99 Reviewed from galleys R Gr. 1–2. After overcoming a serious case of first-day jitters (in Princess Posey and the First Grade Parade, BCCB 6/10), Posey is now a seasoned first-grader, bravely negotiating the long hallways of Middle Pond School and tackling the important tasks of reading, writing, and arithmetic with ease. Posey’s newfound confidence is due in large part to her saintly teacher, Miss Lee; with Miss Lee’s birthday coming up, Posey is determined that her present be perfect, so that Miss Lee will know that Posey thinks her teacher is special and that maybe, just maybe, Miss Lee will think Posey is special as well. When Posey’s best friend shows up Posey’s home-grown roses with a beautiful bouquet, Posey is understandably heartbroken, until she puts on her special pink tutu and thinks of the perfect after-birthday present. It is an impressive feat when just a few short sentences can relay the complicated relationship dynamics as perceived by a first-grader, but Greene does it again and again as she chronicles Posey’s emotional endeavors with tenderness and compassion. Pitch-perfect in tone and and spot-on with age-appropriate issues, this second installment in the series maintains its predecessor’s charming accessibility. Young readers will [End Page 372] relate to Posey’s need to feel special in the eyes of one she admires, and they’ll be delighted when she finds a way to do so while remaining true to herself. Sisson’s softly textured art adds to the book’s overall cozy appeal, making this a satisfying choice for transitional readers. Copyright © 2011 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois