Gypsy Rizka

Living alone in her wagon on the outskirts of a small town while waiting for her father's return, Rizka, a Gypsy and a trickster, exposes the ridiculous foibles of some of the townspeople. High comedy as much as a celebration of Rizka's brains and brassiness, her flouting of conventions, and her own brand of magic, this book is infused with Alexander's recognition and respect for the rich and good heart of its main character and the human truth of accepting others' differences.

I agree with other reviewers who say Rizka reminds them of Pippi Longstocking and is best for ages 9-13.

This story is interestingly crafted: Each adventure is a bit more sophisticated than the previous, each solution the girl derives is a bit more clever & complex, until the end which is poignant, thoughtful, and more mature than the beginning, even though this takes place well within one year.

I'm not sure how many children will be able to keep track of all the adult characters and their eccentric foibles the first time they read this - but it is the kind of book that begs to be re-read so that's ok.

Rizka has dedicated herself to the (mis)management of the townsfolk of Greater Dunitsa. Using her unique and wiley people skills she helps others win true love, shelter homeless animals and cure chicken phobias (which, of course, she may have caused in the first place). All this she accomplishes while living with her faithful feline and waiting for the return of the chiriklos and her gypsy father.

Lloyd Alexander will always have a place in my heart for his authorship of The Prydain Chronicles which I read repeatedly in my tween years. This story didn't seem to have the same depth of characterization as those but I believe this is because this story was written for a younger level. Taking that into consideration I will say that the story show more was enjoyable. Written in an episodic way Rizka is a good example of a clever and self-sufficient young lady and we get to see how she uses her creativity to solve her own problems and the problems of the odd townsfolk around her.

I did like the story although I had to work at it to stay interested. I think that this is one that had I read it when I was younger I would have enjoyed much, much more. I think this would be a great tale for kids 4th grade and up. show less

Lloyd Alexander is an author I have always enjoyed. This is one of his lesser known books and while it is not my favorite of his it is still quite good. His writing style is such that it definitely stands up to the test of time.

Without a doubt his most cartoonesque creation. And so much fun!

The Towns folk don't know what hits them when Rizka decides to take action against the small and sometimes larger injustices that go on in her small town. They don't know how much they need her and she doesn't know how much she needs them untill she has a chance to leave.

see http://www.sfsite.com/05b/gy57.htm