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There Was a Bold Lady who Wanted a Star    by Charise Mericle Harper Amazon.com order for
There Was a Bold Lady who Wanted a Star
by Charise Mericle Harper
Order:  USA  Can
Little, Brown & Co., 2002 (2002)
Hardcover
* *   Reviewed by Hilary Williamson

This retelling of I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly is dedicated to the author's mother, 'who has always been a very bold lady'. It goes on 'I don't know why she wanted a star - it seemed too far.' So the old lady (who looks more middle aged) jogged, roller-skated, biked, drove a car, and flew an airplane. Finally she acquired a big rocket, 'then zoomed up and caught the star in her pocket.'

The illustrations are bright and childlike, with delightful details like the caterpillar who handles shoe delivery, and wears five pairs himself! The tale is a nice turnaround - instead of a passive old lady who keeps opening her mouth and swallowing wildlife, the author gives us a very active one, a mom on a mission. And, as in the original, the reader keeps wondering 'why she wanted a star'.

Curious to know what the mission is? It surprised me and is rather sweet. Read this charming picture book and you'll find out too.

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