Which Way, Wendy?

September 1, 2005
Gr 1-3 -Each book tells a story that correlates directly to social-studies themes that can be found in most primary-grade curriculums. In "Rex", a boy learns the importance of and the roles that rules play in daily life (civics, laws). In "Lila", the protagonist helps settle disputes between her sisters at home and tries her hand at settling them at school (civics and conflict resolution). In "Which Way", Wendy learns her way around her new town (geography and map skills). The children in "Pet Peeves" learn to work together and run a business that makes money (economics and free enterprise). Bright, colorful, cartoon illustrations accompany texts that are suitable for students who are reading fluently. Helpful text boxes provide definitions or explanations of some of the relevant vocabulary. Activities for independent play or for the classroom are included." -Christine E. Carr, Lester C. Noecker Elementary School, Roseland, NJ"

Copyright 2005 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 1, 2005
Gr. 1-3. Longing to belong to a particular group of kids in her new town, Wendy listens outside their clubhouse as they plan to follow a map to a secret cave. After they depart, she discovers their map on the ground, and she reads it so that she can find the children and return it. Joining the group in their quest, she gains "five brand new best friends." Though elements of the story are a little hard to swallow, the idea of following a map to a secret cave is a real attraction, and the youngest character's hypochondria adds humor to the story. The last page features tips on map symbols and map reading. Throughout the book, the pleasing ink drawings, brightened with colorful washes, add to the story's child appeal. From the Social Studies Connects series, this paperback makes a lively addition to classroom units on maps.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2005, American Library Association.)