Hattie – Frida Nilsson, illustrated by Stina Wirsén, Gecko Press, (9781776572700), 2020
Format: Hardcover
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 4
Genre: Realistic fiction
What did you like about the book? Hattie is six and she is just beginning school. Like many children she is frightened and unsure of herself – until she meets Linda who becomes her best friend. She experiences so many of the commonplace activities of children her age like getting a haircut – that turns out awful. Hattie is somewhat of a show-off who likes to play practical jokes. When Richard bullies her she gets back at him by putting bathroom soap into his drinking bottle. When he vomits, Hattie feels pretty successful until Richard’s mother calls later to ask what Hattie did as Richard is very sick. Hattie is terrified. She didn’t mean to hurt him that badly and now her life is pretty much over. Fortunately Richard’s entire family is coming down with the flu and Hattie is off the hook. This is one of many pranks that Hattie indulges in causing her to feel real remorse. The simple, very expressive illustrations done in pen and ink and outlined in black add much to enjoying the adventures of this little girl.
Anything you did not like about the book? No, Hattie exemplifies the qualities of many a six-year-old.
To whom would you recommend this book? I think this story would make a good read-aloud for 1st or 2nd graders. Older children might not relate and the younger group could not read it. The younger group may well find it quite funny and relatable.
Who should buy this book? Public libraries and lower elementary school libraries
Where would you shelve it? Juvenile fiction
Should we (librarians) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? Not necessarily
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City: Katrina Yurenka, Retired Librarian, Manager, Youth Services Book Review
Date of Review: 8/19/2020
Youth Services Book Review 
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