Chompo Bars, spelling “ice cream” with a “q” and a “p”, made-up songs, and internal torment about sharing with a sibling… oh, the memories.
I’ve missed you Frances.
It’s been decades since I journeyed to the whimsical world of Frances the badger, and returning is like slipping into a well-worn pair of cozy footed flannel pajamas. The warm, fuzzy feeling envelopes you like a mother’s hug.
Interestingly, that feeling hasn’t diminished over time. When I flipped to the first page of A Birthday for Frances, it was like taking a stroll down memory lane.
Still, it’s hard to believe it’s been more than 50 years since Russell Hoban created the Frances collection. Remember Bedtime for Frances, A Baby Sister for Frances, Best Friends for Frances, and A Bargain for Frances? All of Hoban’s stories captured the daily dilemmas faced by a young short-legged omnivore whose reactions are remarkably similar to that of a human child?
Frances is as relatable now as she was when I was 8 years old. Only now I am a mom of an 8-year-old who has the pleasure of seeing and hearing my own child delight in the hilarious adventures of Frances and her pals. What’s more, now HarperCollins has made it even easier for youngsters to get hooked on Frances by designing the children’s classic into an I Can Read! book.
A Birthday for Frances is a Level 2 version complete with larger print and warm and inviting illustrations that make you want to snuggle up to pages. The format is perfect for early readers who are graduating from picture to chapter books.
Frances doesn’t fail to enchant pint-sized bookworms with her age appropriate reaction to her little sister Gloria’s upcoming birthday. The young badger must decide whether or not her younger sibling’s special day is worth spending “two whole allowances on.” Not an easy task since Gloria lost Frances’ pail and shovel and Frances is a champion at holding grudges.
Young readers are treated to Frances’ funny songs and unique stabs at spelling, including:
“Everybody makes a fuss
For birthday girls who are not us.
Girls who take your pail away
Eat cake and q-p-m all day.”
“Is q-p-m ice cream?” Mother asked.
“Yes,” said Frances.
The book follows Frances as she buys Gloria some bubble gum and a Chompo Bar, the former which she “accidentally” consumes on the way home from the store and the latter which she may or may not present as a gift.
Your children will have fun finding out what happens in the end. Meanwhile, they’ll get a crash course in sharing, caring, dealing with temptation, and mastering the fine art of forgiving little sisters who are “not much r-v-s-m.”
To get in on this blast from the past check out HarperCollins’ website. You can also get your own I Can Read version of A Birthday for Frances at local book stores and discount retailers nationwide.
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