The Birthday Letters - Hardcover

Charlotte Pomerantz was born in New York City, where she still lives. Among her many popular books for children are Mangaboom, illustrated by Anita Lobel; Here Comes Henny (based on the wordplay of James Joyce), illustrated by Nancy Winslow Parker; Halfway to Your House, illustrated by Gabrielle Vincent; Flap Your Wings and Try and All Asleep, illustrated by Nancy Tafuri; and Posy, illustrated by Catherine Stock (a Christopher Award book).

Kindergarten-Grade 3-Louie the dog is about to celebrate his first birthday and his owner, Tom, invites all their friends in the building, but decides to exclude Emilia when she RSVPs for herself and her two gerbils. Outraged by this insult, the girl begins an argument with Tom through letters he writes "on behalf of Louie." The letters reflect the language structure and sentiments of children, especially when Tom uninvites Emilia and adds, "P.S. I only invited you because you are Pedro's little sister. P.P.S. Gerbils give me the willies." The ending is the weakest part of this story. Emilia crashes the party and proves that Louie likes her even if his owner does not. She, however, invites them both to a party for her pets the following week, and the last page depicts the whole gang having a grand old time. The illustrations, rendered in watercolors, gouache, and pastel pencils, add significant expression to the characters and humor to the straightforward dialogue. Keeping the same style of drawing as in Tina's Diner (S & S, 1997), here the artist uses brighter colors on a less crowded canvas and effectively adds some textured backgrounds. A good read-aloud for young children when discussing the topic of parties, guests, and feelings.
Tina Hudak, Takoma Park Maryland Library, MD
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