I enjoyed the postings in response to Kate's Paris book list so much that I was wondering if any of you cared to recommend books that would appeal to a 10 year old girl who is going to England, Belgium and Holland. I'd like to find books she could read by herself, as well as books I could read to her.
Thanks.
Posted by
Lake Oswego, Oregon
1329 posts
Again, not sure what 10 year olds read. James Herriott and Charles Dickens for England. Is she too young for Jane Austen and the Brontes?
Posted by
Seattle
922 posts
For England, "Ballet Shoes" and "A Little Princess"; perhaps "Mary Poppins"? Also, if you can find any of the "Horrible Histories" books, they're pretty good for basic British history for kids.
For Holland, is she mature enough to handle Anne Frank's diary? If not, you might try "When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit." I read it when I was 10, and it was a good (gentle) introduction to Nazi occupation during WWII.
I don't have much to suggest for Belgium, other than the Tintin books, but only because Herge was Belgian.
Posted by
Fort Wayne, IN, USA
2349 posts
I thought the descriptions of life in 16th century Holland were good in "The Girl with the Pearl Earring" but don't recall if it would be good for a 10 yr old.
When I was her age I loved a series of books by Sally Watson. They were named "Lark" and "Linnett" among others. I have looked in used book stores and haven't found them. They were set in London. May not be any good to me today, but loved them then.
Posted by
Braintree, MA
29 posts
Have her read Ann Frank's diary and then take her to her home in Amsterdam. Ann wasn't much older than your daughter when she went into hiding and seeing her home would leave a life-long impression.
Terry
Posted by
Waterville
31 posts
I also suggest the Horrible Histories-- the Terrible Tudors, the Even More Terrible Tudors, the Vile Victorians, etc.. Also, you can get the Horrible Histories version of the history of Scotland, France, etc. These can be hard to track down in the U.S., but they are worth finding when you get to England and bringing them home. My kids still read them with delight, long after our trip. They are definitely entertaining-- and educational.
She might also like The London Eye Mystery. And, although mostly for younger children, the Beatrix Potter books provide a nice perspective on English sensibilities.
My daughter enjoyed reading about kings and queens; there are lots of books to choose from. And, finally, you should check out the Royal Diaries series (Mary Queen of Scots, Elizabeth !, etc.).
Have fun and happy reading!
Posted by
Lawrenceville, Georgia
693 posts
How about Hans Brinker and the Silver
Skates for Holland?