'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Tuesday 11 May 2010

Review: Pen Pals Forever - Summer Days





Title: Pen Pals Forever: Summer Days

Author: Lenny Pelling

Illustrator: Lenny Pelling

Publisher: Random House, $9.95 RRP

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9781864719000

For ages: 5+

Type: Novel

About: Pen Pals Forever is a series of books for early readers, familiarising them with pen pal friendships and travelling. The first in the series, Summer Days, introduces us to Polly and Jez. Polly is travelling around Australia, writing to Jez the whole time to share her adventures. And Jez is taking part in them at home: from lassoing the postman to drawing on the walls, she is enjoying Polly’s trip almost as much as Polly herself.

This story encourages children to write to family and friends who live any distance from them. It teaches the importance of keeping in touch through all sorts of life and world events, and the different ways in which friendships can be kept.

Summer Days finishes with some tips on writing postcards and keeping in touch with pen pals, the old-fashioned way (no email here!).

The book is covered with gorgeous black and white sketch drawings that bring the characters to life and make the story visually appealing to young children learning to read.

This is a lovely story with a beautiful message, perfect for any child with a love of adventure!

This book is available online

Author website