Deep gratitude to Semicolon

for recommending our current read-aloud:


The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall

Subtitled A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy, a not-to-be-mentioned member of our family had doubts that a story of four girls could hold certain family members' interest. From the bellowing of frequent cachinnation in the living room, I would say that all are onboard with the read-aloud at this point.

The best part about the book? The author is ALIVE. She is writing a sequel, with thoughts of two more besides. We are so happy! We love all our favorite no-longer-living authors, but the problem with their lack of livingness is they can no longer write books this side of glory. We are delighted that Ms. Birdsall has every intention of continuing her tales of the Penderwick clan.

You can read about Jeanne Birdsall (and her plans for future Penderwick books) here.

A note to Miss Autumn Rain: the consensus around here is that you must read this aloud to as many siblings as you can convince to join you. It's as much fun to read as it is to listen.