Saturday, 31 May 2014

City Farm: Katie and the Ducklings by Jessie Williams (Children's, 9 years +, 10E/10E)

May 2013, Curious Fox, 160 pages, Paperback, Review copy

Themes: living with depressed parent, single mother, people getting wrong impression, learning to be happy, farm life, making friends, caring for orphaned animals, life being full of surprises
 
Content: some humour, tissues needed

Summary from Curious Fox
Ever since Katie’s mum lost her job, she just hasn’t been the same, and Katie’s been having to take care of herself. Then a family of orphaned ducklings need her help as well.

Nayuleska's thoughts
City Farm is a series firmly becoming a favourite of mine. I loved the way Katie's story unfolds, how she struggles to cover for her mother's depression, how slowly the truth comes out and they both get what they need. Katie finds City Farm a wonderful distraction, especially when she feels so drawn to the orphan ducklings. Having her own special job gives her hope and confidence. I had worked out the end fairly early on, but it wasn't spoilt by guessing correctly - if anything it was more touching because I had to wait impatiently for it, unlike Katie who didn't have a clue how life would improve for her and her mother. Such a squee-some ending!

Suggested read
Read another in the City Farm series like Laura and Silky (Children's, 9 years +, 10E/10E)

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