MargaretBolingMullin

12/4 ** This book does what it sets out to do - connect with K-2 girls as they figure out how to adapt to their school. If you have young readers who need an alternative to Junie B. Jones, guide them toward Willa Bean. I enjoyed Willa's perky personality; also, the author does a good job giving the three main girls different characteristics.

The story is well-complemented by Kristi Valiant's illustrations. Seeing Willa Bean's hair billowing from her head helped me feel her personality.

Good addition to the early chapter book genre.