Back to School with Betsy

ok, there's one reference to a Christian god, and one chapter in which Betsy decides she wants her family to have more babies of all colors. But this was seriously charming, without being twee or unrealistic, or even all that dated. Some children really do have happy childhoods, and it's ok to celebrate that.

Not quite as bad as Betsy and Billy but the same awkwardnesses etc. For example, as Kathryn says, the Lillybell chapter is something that would be difficult to share with kids nowadays.

And again Betsy gets her dreams to come true. The new neighbor, Mr. Jackson, not only is going to fix up the hours and garden swiftly, but he's marrying Miss Grey, and so it's ok that she's not going to teach anymore, because she's going to be right over the wall from Betsy.

Well, but is it ok with Miss Grey? Honestly, if that woman had enough energy and love for all those little schoolchildren, I would think she'd want to work at least until she started to 'show'... what if she doesn't get pregnant right away? And why does she need a live-in show more housekeeper?

Hm. I don't recommend this one, either. I'm going to keep reading, but I'm glad that I didn't automatically share these with children after my pleasure with Busy Summer. show less

Betsy is back to school with her friends Ellen and Billy. A whole lot of fun and shennanigans ensue, with plenty of scrapes. That's Carolyn Haywood for you. It's dated, but a peek into another era for little kids and big kids and grown-ups alike (Plus, if Grandma gets nostalgic...).

--Catherine