Houseboat Girl
by Lois Lenski
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About This Book
DIVDIVWhat would it be like to live on a houseboat on the Mississippi River with two parents, four kids, eight chickens, several turtles, a dog, and a cat? Patsy and her family are about to find out! /divDIVAt first, Patsy is upset when her parents decide to move from their home in River City, Illinois, to a houseboat on the Mississippi River. She’ll miss her house and friends, and she’s sure the trip downriver will be boring. Gradually, she and her brother and sisters get used to their new life
Our Review
This charming story offers young readers a vivid window into life on a Mississippi River houseboat through the eyes of ten-year-old Patsy, who initially resists her family's move from their Illinois home. Lois Lenski masterfully captures the daily rhythms and adventures of river living, from tending to their eight chickens and several turtles to navigating the ever-changing waters with her parents, three siblings, dog, and cat. The narrative transforms what Patsy fears will be a boring journey into a series of discoveries about independence, family cooperation, and the natural world.
Lenski's signature strength lies in her meticulous research and ability to portray regional American life with authenticity and warmth, making this an excellent choice for children curious about different ways of living. The gradual shift in Patsy's perspective from reluctance to embracing her new home provides a gentle, relatable lesson in adaptability for readers facing their own changes. This immersive river adventure will particularly resonate with children who enjoy detailed stories about family dynamics, animal companions, and exploring unique environments, leaving them with a lasting appreciation for life's unexpected journeys.
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