Sunday, July 6, 2014

Lulu's Mysterious Mission by Judith Viorst -- ESSENTIAL

Viorst, Judith Lulu's Mysterious Mission, illustrated by Kevin Cornell. 188 pgs. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2014. $15.99. Content: G.

Lulu is back, and this time her parents are leaving her home with a babysitter while they go on vacation together for a whole week. This, in Lulu's opinion, is not acceptable. She knows exactly how to handle her parents, after all, but this drill sergeant of a babysitter is a whole different story. Until Lulu finds out the woman's secret. Then she's suddenly begging her to stay instead of trying to chase her off.

This was my first Lulu book, and I found it hilarious. The narrator is refreshingly honest in a way that is both amusing and suspenseful. The illustrations, and even the formatting, are extremely appealing as well, making the whole thing feel like a fun, not-too-serious adventure. Note: From what I've heard, this book has a different illustrator from the first two, and the verdict is mixed when it comes to the change. I love Cornell's drawings here, but others may miss Lane Smith's style.

EL -- ESSENTIAL. Reviewer: Caryn

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