The Silver Secret

July 1, 2010
Gr 3–5—-nside her trademark "Sassy Sack," spunky and diminutive Sassy keeps everything anyone could possibly use, from batteries to silver nail polish. However, her bag also contains one very big Silver Secret. The fourth grader wants nothing more than to participate in her school choir's musical and wear one of the shimmery purple dresses the performers wear. Unfortunately, she can't carry a tune, and she is initially disappointed with her role of stage manager. As Sassy directs and organizes the participants, though, she realizes that her strengths are needed and appreciated even if she is behind the curtain. When a fire breaks out in the auditorium, the treasured Sassy Sack goes missing and along with it, her Silver Secret—a piccolo given to her by her grandmother. As the story unfolds, Sassy learns that everyone has an area in which they shine, and she becomes skilled in bringing that out in others and in herself. Reluctant readers and those looking for quick, fun chapter books will find the African-American child appealing. This story has some sparkle, but isn't a true gem.—"Michele Shaw, Quail Run Elementary School, San Ramon, CA"

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