Just Harriet

Just Harriet
Elana K. Arnold
Walden Pond, 2022
208 pages
Grades 2-5
Realistic Fiction

It is the last day of third grade and Harriet can't wait for summer fun! Her dreams are dashed as Dad picks her up from school (instead of Mom) and explains that she must go to stay with her grandmother for the summer on an island off the coast of her California home while Mom completes her difficult pregnancy on bedrest. Nanu runs a B&B and, though Harriet resents being sent away, she is willing to help out. Harriet insists on bringing Matzah Ball, her cat, which creates drama with Moneypenny, Nanu's ancient Basset Hound, but Harriet is insistent on making it work. Dad drops hints about a magical Gingerbread House and thinks that the shed may hold secrets. Harriet offers to clean out the shed and it is here that she stumbles upon an ancient key, which leads her to a mystery trying to discover where it fits, as well as seeking the magical Gingerbread House. While making connections with the B&B guests, as well as the islands locals, Harriet starts to uncover her father's past and finds some magic of her own as she searches for clues. Our heroine also grows up a bit along the way as she learns the power of honesty and empathy and finds allies in unexpected places.

Arnold, who also writes powerful teen fairy tales, is the author of the Bat series, about a young boy who sees the world through the eyes of Asperger's. Now we meet Harriet, who struggles with telling the truth and is realistically self-absorbed. The reading level is that wonderful sweet-spot between chapter books and more mature middle grade and is perfect for transitioning readers. Both in level and content, this is a perfect update for the Ramona books, which are the best level for kids moving up from Junie B. Harriet is a sympathetic, yet flawed, character with a lot of depth. She often takes the easy way out by stretching the truth and following what feels more comfortable at the time. Eventually, she gets tired of the "yucky feeling" that lying brings and comes clean to Nanu, who is an understanding grandparent and leads Harriet in the right direction. The gentle mystery is fun and gives the plot somewhere to go, leading the reader to a pleasant surprise. Animal lovers will especially enjoy this story and the pet's antics are likely to entice giggles. Harriet is most likable, yet far from a perfect individual. The best thing for her will be a sibling, though I think that will bring its own challenges, which will likely be explored in a sequel.