The Long Way Westward

The Long Way Westward, by Joan Sandin

62/60 | Started 10.31.24 • Finished 11.04.24 | 5 stars

"It made me happy when they reached home."

Carolyn, age 7

Henry Huggins

Henry Huggins, by Beverly Cleary

61/60 | Started 10.25.24 • Finished 11.04.24 | 4.5 stars

"I liked when Henry won the contest between the two boys about who would get Ribsy/Dizzy. But I was also sad when the boy lost because I felt sorry for him. He had had Ribsy/Dizzy for longer than Henry. I liked all the silly stories about Ribsy and Henry and Henry’s friends."

Carolyn, age 7

The Happiest Man on Earth

The Happiest Man on Earth, by Eddie Jaku

60/60 | Started 10.30.24 • Finished 11.04.24 | 3.5 stars

I'm not sure I agree with all the rage on this one. While his story is certainly amazing for its perseverance in the midst of unspeakable cruelties, his encouragements felt a lot like "pick yourself up" and "just be happy." There was no basis or grounding for these little positivities he put forth. I guess I expected to be inspired and blown away and instead it just fell flat for me.