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kkriesel 's review for:
Harriet the Spy
by Louise Fitzhugh
I didn't read this as a child because, according to my childhood parish, reading a banned book is clearly a sin. My classmates and I were encouraged to watch the movie instead, as that wasn't such a bad influence. Now that I've read the book, I understand more fully why we were discouraged from reading it - it sure is sinful!
The writing is bumpy, but so is Harriet and therefore it works well. The characters, however deep or shallow, are magnetic through Harriet's inquisitive and benignly judgmental eyes. The statements of rich vs. poor, normal vs. bizarre, individual vs. brown-noser are both striking and insightful. At times it's very dark, which enriches the entire experience of the book.
Overall I enjoyed the book, and I don't think it takes away from the much-loved film.
The writing is bumpy, but so is Harriet and therefore it works well. The characters, however deep or shallow, are magnetic through Harriet's inquisitive and benignly judgmental eyes. The statements of rich vs. poor, normal vs. bizarre, individual vs. brown-noser are both striking and insightful. At times it's very dark, which enriches the entire experience of the book.
Overall I enjoyed the book, and I don't think it takes away from the much-loved film.