Caddie Woodlawn

The back of this fantastic Newbery Medal book reads: “Caddie is brave, and her story is special because it’s based on the life and memories of Carol Ryrie Brink’s grandmother, the real Caddie Woodlawn. Her spirit and sense of fun have made this book a classic that readers have taken to their hearts for more than seventy years.” Some reviewers say Caddie, a tomboy, has her character suppressed as she is trained how to be a “lady.” I disagree, however. Instead, I see Caddie progressing and changing as she grows into womanhood and learns self-control. Caddie’s own words at the end explain: “Folks keep growing from one person into another all their lives . . .” I thoroughly enjoy the beautiful, heartwarming scenes in this book that explore family ties and life in simpler times.

(Reviewed by Jenny Phillips)