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This is my first review of a
book for middle readers. When my daughters
received The Wedding Planner’s Daughter as a gift, I felt I should read
it
first... just in case. In case of what? I wasn’t sure. I was new to the
genre. So I read it... just in case. It turns out I had nothing to worry
about.
Our protagonist, Willafred, is a girl approaching her 13th birthday. She lives
on Cape Cod, works in her grandmother’s candy shop and is a voracious reader.
In fact, each chapter begins with aphoristic quotes from her favorite authors or
books: Anne of Green Gables, Mark Twain, Louisa May Alcott... they all influence
the life of this young girl.
Willa, as she likes to be called, is the daughter of Stella Havisham - a
phenomenal wedding planner. Willa’s father died the day after her parents were
married... the day after she was conceived. Willa’s greatest wish is for her
mother to re-marry so she can have a father.
Although Stella is a wedding planner, she shields Willa from all weddings. She
tells her to depend only on herself, for Prince Charming might fall off his
horse. Willa can’t help but be curious about the weddings, love, and romance.
Especially since romance is budding throughout the book... with her grandmother,
her mother, and herself.
A bit predictable, The Wedding Planner’s Daughter might not be the next
"must read" for young girls, but any book which promotes the reading of good
books and wholesome values earns my seal of approval.
For ages 8 - 13.
Review by Beth Golay,
August 14, 2005
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