Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this is a magical tale of friendship.
Families can talk about why Bibi might not have had friends before. What things did she learn about being a friend from the ballerinas? What are the qualities of a good friend? Kids might also want to write a letter to Bibi giving her tips on how to be a friend.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Dawn Friedman
The most striking thing about this book are the gorgeous, detailed paintings that grace every page. A perfect complement to the melancholy fairytale with an uplifting ending, the illustrations give kids lots to look at. Even the end papers dance with doubles that kids will want to scrutinize.
The story itself is pretty simple: Bibi Branchflower is so rich and so enamored with shopping that she hasn't had time to make friends. When she purchases a music box with two sad ballerinas inside, she's given the opportunity to change her ways. The story isn't as predictable as it sounds since Bibi has some challenges and some adventures along the way.
The marriage of story and illustrator here is superb. While Juan's pictures would shine regardless of the text, the story is enhanced by the extremely stylized characters, somber colors, and mysterious details (the shopkeeper wearing his short fez, for example, and Bibi's big buttons).
From The Book
"This is hard!" Bibi exclaimed. She bent close to them and whispered, "What will make you happy, my dear Miranda, my dear Mathilda? I wish you could tell me."
Just as if they had answered, an idea came to Bibi, and for the first time ever, she kissed her lovely girls.
Plot Summary:
Bibi Branchflower is so rich that she buys two of everything. But she doesn't have even one friend. When she buys a mysterious music box with two spinning ballerinas inside, her life begins to change.
Related Books:
More of Ana Juan's Gorgeous Illustrations:
For You Are a Kenyan Child by Kelly Cunnnane and Ana Juan
Elena's Serenade by Campbell Geeslin
Frida by Jonah Winter
The Night Eater by Ana Juan
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Social BehaviorBibi learns to be a friend. |
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