The Just-Right, Perfect Present

by: Frances Kennedy; Illustrated by Sheila Aldridge

Published by: Tricycle Press

Reviewed by Andrea Sisco

I remember memorizing poetry as a child. It was challenging, it could be frustrating and it was always exhilarating. Frances Kennedy's The Just-Right Perfect Present is a wonderful introduction of poetry recitation for a new generation. It is also a follow-up book to The Pickle Patch Bathtub.

The Philp family reunion is held in Grandpapa's orchard. On the day he and Grandmama were married, he planted the first apple tree. Each time another Philp was born, a new tree is planted. At the end of the reunion, Grandpapa invited the family to gather together to celebrate his and Grandmama's golden wedding anniversary.

As a gift for his wife, Grandpapa hoped that one of his grandchildren would recite a poem at the party. As Donna Delle announces the poem she will recite, her cousin John chides her choice. Later, after much practice, Donna learns that John announced to Grandpapa, his poem choice. It was Donna's poem.

Donna is devastated, but perseveres and finds just the right poem for Grandpapa and Grandmama. She even puts a personal twist on it and receives much applause and approval.

The book features the text of the poem Donna chose originally (The Owl and the Pussycat by Edward Lear) and the poem she actually performed (The Planting of the Apple Tree by William Cullen Bryant).

The illustrations will draw children into the story. They follow the story closely enough that they are a story in themselves.

Armchair Interviews says: Children will be entertained by The Just-Right, Perfect Present. It reinforces the idea that hard work and perseverance bring satisfaction in a job well done.

Illustrator's Web site: http://www.SheilaAldridge.com