Wimp of the World - Hardcover

Grade 3-5-Bridget, 10, lives with her parents and brothers in their combination home/office of the Blue Moon Motel, which consists of 13 log cabins that they own and operate. Her brothers, 14-year-old triplets, try their best to keep her from turning into a wimp by bullying her into becoming physically fit and teaching her the right kind of clothes to wear-cut-offs and sweats. When Aunt Dawsie, who lives in cabin 13, suddenly announces she is getting married for the first time at the age of 68, she wants her niece to be her maid of honor. Bridget doesn't like the idea of wearing a dress or of her aunt moving away. Meanwhile, since the Blue Moon is not doing so well and a new motel presents competition, she and Aunt Dawsie convince the family to spruce up their rundown miniature golf course and business booms. In the end, the wedding is wonderful, Bridget loves her new outfit, and accepts her new uncle. The book is short and fast-paced, too short in some aspects. The two main characters are well defined, but the others remain one dimensional. Nonetheless, this is an entertaining story with a happy ending.
Nancy P. Reeder, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Columbia, SC
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Gr. 3-5. Ten-year-old Bridget wants to fit in with her three older brothers, and the boys are perfectly willing to help her out. It's easy for them to lay down the law: no flowered shorts, plenty of push-ups, and, for heaven's sake, no dresses. Finding a niche for herself is particularly important, since her parents are expecting a new baby, and it appears the baby is to be Bridget's new roommate. Unfortunately, Bridget's endeavors to change come to a quick halt when her beloved 68-year-old great-aunt Dawsie, who has always made Bridget feel special, announces her engagement. Bridget is suddenly afraid she's losing her very best friend. Herzig and Mali don't spend a lot of time on characters--wise, down-to-earth Dawsie is probably the best--but they manage to capture the hubbub of a big, close, hardworking family of individuals, and there's not a slow moment in their sweet, warm story. If kids aren't deterred by the book's rather small type, they'll find Bridget's journey toward personhood a quick, pleasant read. Stephanie Zvirin