Books to Borrow Martinsburg Public Library Recommends

Just Harriet is a chapter book for young readers that tells the story of how Harriet spent the summer after third grade on Marble Island at her grandmother’s bed and breakfast. Harriet is not at all happy about spending her summer away from home, her parents, and all the wonderful things she had been planning to do. She is both angry and sad, which causes her to be disagreeable, keep secrets, and tell lies, even though she knows better.  

Harriet’s grandmother has an old basset hound named Moneypenny who isn’t exactly happy about the summer plans either. Harriet takes her cat, Matzo Ball, with her to the island and, according to Nanu, “Moneypenny is more of a people person than a cat person.” Moneypenny and Matzo Ball each struggle to find their own space at the Bric-a-Brac Bed and Breakfast.

On their way to Nanu’s place, Harriet’s dad reminisces about growing up on the island where there is a city pool, a small library, and The Gingerbread House “where the real treasure is.” This piques Harriet’s interest and leads her to island adventures as she meets interesting people, finds an old key, and discovers that she is strong enough to withstand changes and to make room for new and unexpected things.

Just Harriet is a wonderful book for young readers ages 7-10. Moody, sulky kids will recognize a soul mate in Harriet who is finding her way in the world as she learns to make room for new things in her life.

Elana K. Arnold is an award-winning author of young adult novels and children’s books.  She was a National Book Award finalist for “What Girls Are Made Of” and a Printz Honor winner for “Damsel,” among others. She teaches at Hamline University and lives in Southern California.