Thursday, January 28, 2010

Amelia Bedelia's Masterpiece by Herman Parish

This is the story of Amelia Bedelia's day at the art museum. Many adventures and misadventures ensue, and by the end of the story Amelia has captured an art theif, broken several busts, and helped a young boy becom a real artist. This story, like all stories about Amelia Bedelia, involves clever misunderstandings and turns of speech.
Although Amelia's misunderstandings can get old, young readers would probably find them funny and be able to relate to some of them. For example, Amelia finds the term 'priceless' confusing, thinking it means 'worthless'. I remember also being confused by that word when I was younger and also loving Amelia Bedelia books.
The story has a satisfying ending and several good messages. My favorite of the lessons taught in this book is when Amelia lets the art theif go free because he promises to be good, and later she receives an original painting done by him and a note thanking her for the second chance. This teaches readers to have faith in other people and not judge others too harshly because people can change if you believe in them.

No comments:

Post a Comment