Birthday for Frances, A
Russell Hoban, Lillian Hoban (1983), Scholastic
Tomorrow is Gloria’s birthday, and Frances is not happy about it. She is jealous of her little sister and all of the festivities being prepared to celebrate her. Frances slowly warms up to the idea that Gloria’s birthday is not about her, and even buys her little sister a present. On Gloria’s birthday, Frances follows through with giving her the present, as well as wishing her a happy birthday.
Eliza –
This is a great story, as are all the Francis books, that sweetly touches on sibling relationships, friendship, empathy and selflessness. The relatable and endearing characters are a joy to read about and the situations introduced provide opportunity for lessons in grace, humility, sharing and family.