The Secret Life of Amanda K. Woods

Takes a long time to realize, and then only from one concrete clue, that this takes place in the 1954-55 school year. In many ways it felt like my youth in WI in the 70s though. I'm not convinced of the accuracy of all the historical detail.

But it's a nice story, with interesting ideas, and engaging. It doesn't read as bleak or boring as too much children's historical fiction does. And the r'ship between Amanda and her father is priceless. Mother is a bit stereotyped, but also a real person, too. So are the sister, the best friend, and the friend's mother.

The teacher has a great idea... instead of How I Spent my Summer Vacation, she has the fifth-graders write What I Like to do Best, and How I do it. As Amanda notes, it's a great way to show more get to know her classmates better.

I like that sister Margaret wants to be a doctor "Because I will be good at it! And besides, people are less phony when they are sick."

I don't rate it higher just for my own personal enjoyment. Young me agrees, it's a bit too simplistic and straightforward, not special. show less

Replaces rather beat-up Scholastic copy.

I really liked this book

The exciting life of a young girl.