Reviews

The last day of 3rd grade was OK at school but got steadily worse when Harriet's dad instead of mom picked her up at school. A child who often finds lying easier than telling the truth, especially when it comes to feelings, Harriet is both sad and mad about unexpectedly being sent to spend the summer with her Nanu at her island B&B because her mother needs to be on bed rest until the new baby arrives in August. Harriet chooses to share her anger because it's easier than sharing her sadness. Things start to look up when she discovers a mysterious key that might lead to unexpected information about her dad's childhood on the island.

Narrated by Harriet, who reminds me a little of a more endearing Junie B. Jones, the book is great for young fluent readers as well. Harriet has a cat named Matzo Ball but there are no other references to Judaism or Jewish traditions. Nanu has a dog named Moneypenny, and the family's last name is Werner. Author is of Jewish heritage.

blogginboutbooks's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

JUST HARRIET was an okay read for me. There's nothing special or particularly memorable about it, but it wasn't bad either. On the plus side, it's a quick, easy read with a vivid island setting. Other than Harriet, the characters are warm, likable, and forgiving. Harriet is sympathetic, but she's also just kind of a brat. Her constant complaining, rudeness, and lying don't make her very likable. It's understandable that she's homesick and that she's acting out without really WANTING to, and her attitude does change over the course of the book, but still...I found Harriet all kinds of irritating. JUST HARRIET is short enough that it doesn't really get boring. It doesn't have tons going on in the way of plot, though, so it felt a bit here, there, and everywhere to me. On the whole, then, I didn't end up loving this book. As I said before, it was just an average read for me.

kelleemoye's review

Go to review page

5.0

When I first read the Bat books by Elana K. Arnold, I was so happy with the new edition to the reading ladder between early chapter books and solid middle grade, and Just Harriet fits solidly in there as well. Harriet is going to be loved the way that Ramona was loved by readers of the past (like me!). She is a bit sassy, super smart, quick witted, and full of curiosity. And her supporting cast of characters fill the background with joy -from her grandma, Nanu, to the owners of the ice cream parlor, Hans & Gretchen. Then add in the very special setting of Marble Island, and you have a special book that is going to find a bunch of happy readers! I can’t wait for more Harriet in the future.

Full review with teaching tools: http://www.unleashingreaders.com/?p=24026