| Mercy Watson: Princess in Disguise (series #4) |
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What You Need to Know:
• This is a hilarious series that highlights DiCamillos zany, dry humor.
• It is also a fine example of a wonderfully symbiotic relationship between author and illustrator. Chris Van Dusen's
terrific and appealing illustrations only add hilarity to an already uproarious text.
• The book itself is a hybrid between picture book and early chapter book, making for both a great read-aloud
experience and a perfect book for the new reader to attempt on their own.
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Sweet Series Background:
Kate DiCamillo does it again with this winning Learning to Read, SR, series. The critically-acclaimed author of both The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane and Tale of Despereaux, has created a wonderful series for the younger reader. DiCamillo's writing talent, combined here with Chris Van Dusen's terrific illustrations, makes the Mercy Watson series not to be missed!
DiCamillo's characters include the Watsons, the loving, albeit misguided owners of Mercy, their pet pig. They adore Mercy, and lavish great attention and care on her as if she were human, she even has her own room. Other characters that make appearances in all the books include the neighbors, the Lincoln Sisters and the clumsy Firemen and Policemen. Each character plays a different role in each story's plot, but are all consistently bumbling and hilarious. |
Sweet Book Summary:
Mercy is Mr. and Mrs. Watson's pet pig and the apple of their eye. Mercy Watson Princess in Disguise is the fourth in this laugh out loud series which, as of July, 2009, will be six books in all. In this installment, the wide-eyed Watson's decide Mercy should be a princess for Halloween. A typical who's on first adventure ensues during their trick or treat rounds, started when Mercy is disappointed treats meant candy and not her usual "toast with a great deal of butter on it". The usual charming characters are back in this book including: Eugenia and Baby Lincoln,the neighbors, General Washington the cat, and the fire department. We are also introduced to a young brother and sister from down the road, Frank and Stella. Check out page 46, you are in for a treat (think Blanche Duboise).
The combination of DiCamillo's use of beautiful language, not at all condescending to the reader, the comically drawn characters (how does DiCamillo make you understand a character in one sentence, what a gift she has!), and Van Dusen's illustrations all make for a side-splitting read. It makes you want to jump right inside this book and visit Deckawoo Drive. |
Author: Kate Dicamillo Illustrator: Chris Van Dusen Published: 2007, 71 pages
Themes: Animals, Humor, Excellent Read-Aloud, Exquisite Illustrations, Extraordinary Language, Adventure, Princesses, Holidays-Halloween |
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