Melody Mooner Takes Lessons. Frank B. Edwards. Illustrated by John Bianchi. Kingston: Bungalo Books, 1996. paper, $4.95. ISBN 0-921285-46-9. Subject Heading: Hobbies-Juvenile fiction. Kindergarten - grade 4 / Ages 5 - 9. Review by Brian Rountree. ***/4

Here is a new story about Melody who decides that she wants to take lessons and "be good at something special." So she begins in January and each month tries new indoor or outdoor activities. October proves to be the month where Melody finds something special which she can do and she practises into December.

The illustrations of John Bianchi are large, crisp and focussed upon Melody and her activities. Above the text is a calendar page which includes a picture of Melody being a 'star' for that month's activity, while the facing page shows her true reactions.

Young children are always on the go and Melody is no exception. She has the curiosity and enthusiasm which carry children through lots of things in just one day. Melody's search lends itself to discussions about sports (can you name them all?) and calendars (is it possible to figure out what year this story takes place?).

Edwards and Bianchi have created another delightful addition to their Bungalo Books world, one which will surely be enjoyed by all who read the stories.

Recommended

Brian Rountree is the teacher-librarian at Eastwood Elementary School in Thompson, Manitoba. He is the Secretary-Treasurer of the Canadian School Library Association.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

Copyright © 1996 the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.

Published by
The Manitoba Library Association
ISSN 1201-9364