ok, there's one reference to a Christian god, and one chapter in which Betsy decides she wants her family to have more babies of all colors. But this was seriously charming, without being twee or unrealistic, or even all that dated. Some children really do have happy childhoods, and it's ok to celebrate that. ( )

Betsy is back to school with her friends Ellen and Billy. A whole lot of fun and shennanigans ensue, with plenty of scrapes. That's Carolyn Haywood for you. It's dated, but a peek into another era for little kids and big kids and grown-ups alike (Plus, if Grandma gets nostalgic...).

--Catherine ( )