A Great Chapter Book Series for First-Grade Girls and Young Readers

I read and loved the first Princess Posey book, Princess Posey and the First Grade Parade, by Stephanie Greene. Today, I finally took the opportunity to read books 2 (Princess Posey and the Perfect Present) and 3 (Princess Posey and the Next-Door Dog), having recently bought them to give to my six-year-old niece.

Posey's problems are so refreshingly real: being nervous about your first day of first grade, wanting an "alive" animal as a pet (and wanting it TODAY, not when your baby brother is older), or wanting to give your teacher the best present so (as Posey admits in her secret heart) she will like you best. Most certainly, a child (including the child in me) will be able relate to the Posey's predicaments and feelings.

As a character, Posey is (thankfully) not mean or bratty. Even when she does turn temporarily mean as a response to her inner upset in Perfect Present, Posey recognizes it and makes up for it in her unique way the next day. Another plus: she generally speaks proper English (unlike another popular first-grade chapter-book main character who some first-grade teachers and parents have problems with because of her poor grammar).

Another thing that I love about these books is that Posey's family is just as real as her problems. Posey has a mom and a baby brother, as well as a grandfather who is regularly on the scene. Throw in some neighbor boys, and of course a next-door dog and its family, and you have a great set up for what I hope will be many Posey stories to come.

I used to be a sparkle-resistant mom. I hated it when I'd take my daughter to the book store and she'd bring me the pinkest, most sparkly, commercialized book on the shelf to buy. Posey is a great go-to book when this happens. It has sparkles on the cover -- not as much as a Barbie book or anything sickening, but enough for children to feel the glitter on Posey's tutu and on the title lettering with their fingertips -- but it's still good literature.

And the most exciting bonus: there are "Posey's Pages" at the end of each book, so readers (and grown-ups, if desired) can make their own magic princess wand or sparkle bead necklace. When I have a five-year-old in the house, I like me some crafts, especially ones that can be made with simple supplies I already have around the house. Posey delivers in this area too.

These books can be read in one sitting. Unlike some other chapter books, they are ENJOYABLE for adults to read with a child. The story is strong and fast-paced. The characters are delightful. And the short chapters and well spaced text are inviting for those children wanting to read them solo.

Thank you, Stephanie Greene, for giving us Princess Posey. I'll be collecting these for my one year old and giving them away to my niece and all the other little girls in my life.