The name Precious is a popular African American name for girls. Right off the bat, McKissack draws her readers into an African American’s lifestyle with her slang and lingo. She creates an absurd fairytale that appeals to young children who still might believe in magic. Often time children are given responsibilities that they must be held accountable for. This Boo Hag character is her consciousness reminding her to stay true to her promise to not open the door for strangers no matter what. As any good children’s book should have, there are at least 3 different scenarios that the main character is tested until the ultimate test or climax is revealed. Precious was able to use her wit and brain to pass all of these test. It will make young readers feel good and capable to do the right thing and be responsible as well. ( )

Precious and her brother reminded me of my relationship with my brothers growing up. Her brother had told her a story of the boo hag that had scared precious into opening the door to strangers. This story is really relatable to anyone who has siblings as well as it’s a great story to teach kids not to talk to strangers. I think the author and illustrator did a great job on portraying the characters of the boo hag into people precious might recognize to make her want to let them in but in the end teach them that even though they might look like someone they know or nice it does mean it’s safe to trust them.

Precious had to stay home because of a stomach ache that she had, because of this, she had to stay home alone while her mother and her brother went to go work. While she was home alone she was told to not let anyone in no matter what. When the Boo Hag tried to get Precious to let her in, she was not fooled. This story is a fun yet spooky way to teach children to not let anyone in their house when they are home a lone, no matter what they say or who they are. ( )

This book would be appropriate as an interactive read aloud for 1st-4th grade students as it is too long for kindergarten students. The students would have to look at the pictures in order to understand some of what happens in the book, and they will have to ask and answer questions to help them understand everything about the book. It is also appropriate for those grades because the main character seems to be around their age and they may be able to relate.

In the efforts to stay home, Precious' mama let her. She was told to let NO ONE in the house, not even Mama. Her brother told her a story about Pruella the Boo Hag. She was so scared, she told her friend through the window. This book goes to show that children will believe anything they hear and are gentle souls. ( )