Description
Mary Ann lives with her family in the rugged Utah territory. Mary Ann has a busy life, and a special friend to share it with: her beloved homemade doll, Betty.
Betty’s wheat-filled body sits straight and tall. Her embroidered eyes never blink. Still, Mary Ann knows that Betty is always paying attention. But one afternoon, a sudden, fierce storm forces Mary Ann and her family into their cabin before the young girl can retrieve her doll from the garden. By the time the wild wind and rain subside, Betty is gone. Mary Ann is heartbroken, but one day when winter turns to spring, Mary Ann spies a familiar shape growing into a patch of slender grass near the bottom of a hill.
Author Alison L. Randall’s moving tale of steadfast love and hope is complemented by Bill Farnsworth’s evocative illustrations. An afterword provides more information about 19th century rural life and the real-life inspiration for Mary Ann.
Reviews
“A sweet story of loss and renewal told with empathy and feeling that is never heavy-handed.… Farnsworth’s realistic oil paintings have a warm, soft quality that matches the tone of the text.…a great addition to all collections…” ―School Library Journal
“This story should resonate with 21st century children who have grown deeply attached to a doll or stuffed animal. Farnsworth’s oil paintings and the overall book design possess an unhurried, old-fashioned quality; and the compliment Randall’s simple, heartfelt story.” ―Booklist
“Farnsworth’s vivid oil paintings marvelously depict the realities of frontier life and capture the intense emotions of the story.” ―The Bloomsbury Review
“This tender tale and the accompanying oil paintings capture frontier life and the timeless bond between kids and their playthings.” ―Washington Parent
Awards
Storytelling World Resource Awards (Honor, Stories for Young Listeners) ―Storytelling World Magazine, 2010
Goldfinch Award (Nominee) ―Iowa Association of School Librarians
More Details
AR Level: 3.9
F&P: O, Gr 3, Genre HF
Lexile: AD680L
Themes: Frontier Life, Loss, Resourcefulness, Toys
BISAC 1: JUV016140 JUVENILE FICTION / Historical/United States/19th Century
BISAC 2: JUV040000 JUVENILE FICTION / Toys/Dolls/Puppets
BISAC 3: JUV039060 JUVENILE FICTION / Social Issues/Friendship
