Lawn Mower Magic

January 15, 2012
The four Willow children attempt to tame an old-fashioned reel lawn mower with an enormous appetite for grass. The family's move to the country has been expensive, and money is tight. When the power mower dies, it seems that buying a new one will take precedence over buying a train ticket for Derek to go visit his old friends. Abner, Tate and Celia are fine siblings. Although they don't want to play the games he likes, they're willing to help their brother by using an old mower they found in the shed. The four of them, plus Celia's stuffed rabbit, make a great team. Taking turns and then working together, they hang on desperately, steering the mower as it gobbles up the green and stopping it before it does too much damage to the vegetable garden or farmer Wopter's alfalfa field. Short chapters and plentiful black-and-white illustrations (not seen), plus the suspense that comes with the realization that "Mowey" is out of control, will carry new readers along. This traditional family adventure provides a touch of magic and the satisfying sense that kids on their own can accomplish something. Second in a promising series that began with Hamster Magic (2010) this is a good stepping stone to more challenging reading. (Fantasy. 6-9)

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April 1, 2012

Gr 2-4-The Willow family has recently moved to a house in the country, and the four siblings are still adjusting to life away from their old neighborhood and not feeling at home. Derek misses his friends, and, when he receives an invitation to visit them for a week, he's excited. However, the family's lawn mower breaks and, because of their financial situation, he doesn't feel that he can ask his parents for money for a train ticket. As in Hamster Magic (Random, 2010), magic comes into play. When the children discover a rusty old lawn mower in the shed and Celia throws grass at it, it seems to come to life. The youngsters get more than they bargain for when it takes on a life of its own. This beginning chapter book is simple and appealing, and the camaraderie among the four siblings is a positive element. The black-and-white illustrations, some full page, enhance the humor.-Tina Martin, Arlington Heights Memorial Library, IL

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