What started your love of reading? Is there one book you remember staying up way past your bedtime to read ‘just one more chapter’? As adults, the things we loved as children stay with us for a long time. We remember them because they bring back that sense of joy. Of simplicity. Maybe for you that childhood joy is a favourite toy, or that amazing holiday by the beach.
For me, one of those childhood joys was Lady Lollipop by Dick King Smith. Haven’t heard of it? Well! You’re in for a treat. I won’t give away any *Gasp* spoilers in case you decide to read it. For those of you who remember Lady Lollipop join me in giving this little book some love.
If you’ve always dreamed of having an unusual pet – this book is and was for you! The stories of spoiled Princess Penelope and her pet pig Lady Lollipop will charm you or any primary aged children you know.
My edition is illustrated by Jill Barton, whose pen sketches perfectly capture the humour and delight of Lady lollipop’s antics. This book has a way of making you smile (and Google your council’s rules on pet keeping!). The story has some moral depth to it. We can expect to enjoy classic behavioural transformation from pretty much all the characters in this read.
What I liked most?
As a child I seemed to be drawn to strong characters with a penchant for getting into Mischief. I owned all the Naughty Miss Amelia Jane books by Enid Blyton. Lady Lollipop certainly falls into a similar category. Perhaps my parents were trying to tell me something about being bossy?… This book also taught me about kindness, which is something everyone needs. It would make a wonderful gift for a little girl (or boy!) who is ready to begin reading short stories and needs a dose of whimsy in their life!
What I liked least?
I still don’t have a pet pig. That makes me sad! After reading this book I’ve wanted a pet pig for many years. Alas, somethings just aren’t meant to be. About the book specifically there isn’t much negative to report back. It’s a delightful and charming example of children’s literature.
My Rating?
It’s challenging rating a children’s book as I am reviewing it for the enjoyment of the child and not an adult. This book would make a little girl very happy, and be a perfect gift. I rate this book 3 and 1/2 stars. As much as I loved this read, this book is primarily aimed at young girls. While there is nothing wrong with that, I’m not sure it has the broad appeal to both genders that other stories do. For little girls it’s a five star book – for children more broadly it’s a bit lower – it is a book about princesses after-all. But, that being said who can resist a cute pig?
I hope you enjoyed this weeks review! What were your favourite books as a child? Leave a comment below and hit that subscribe button for more bookish content delivered to your inbox each week.
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Happy reading!
Steph Huddleston 