The Penderwicks
By Jeanne Birdsall
Summary: When the Penderwick’s usual summer cottage is sold, Mr. Penderwick rushes to find another place to stay. The four Penderwick sisters expect their summer to be normal, even with the change of place. But it turns out that their new cottage sits on the grounds of a lavish estate called Arundel. But even more interesting than the estate is Jeffery Tifton, the owners son. As the five children grow closer, chaos ensues, and this summer turns out to be one the Penderwick’s will never forget.
My Review: I really enjoyed this book, even if I found it a bit slow at times. I absolutely LOVED the sisters, and their different views on situations are so funny. I love Rosalind’s sensibility, Skye’s fieriness, Jane’s imagination, and Batty’s wings.
My Takeaway: This is a charming story about a family’s eventful summer. Parents might want to be aware of the themes of loss in the this story.
Romance: A little. One of the sisters has a crush, and it is brought up a lot but it is only her thinking. One of the sisters sees a kiss.
Language: Very Little. Skye is very fiery, and often says things like “go away or I’ll kill you”, which she obviously doesn’t mean. Mentions of swearing.
Alcohol/drugs/smoking: Characters drinking champagne.
Violence: None.
Darkness: None.
Bad Messages: None.
Good Messages: The power of family and friends
Stars: 3