Reviews

This was a light and enjoyable read for the most part. The book is divided into the months between June 1903 and May 1904. The "chapter" months are very episodic, almost like a series of short stories, as there aren't any strong arcs to speak of. The characters are consistent but a little shallow; Esther and Rose, especially, don't ever move past their boy-crazed silliness; but at least they keep us entertained. Grandpa Prophater was my favorite, as he is the most "aware" of the hilarity of this family. One of the scenes I found most interesting was when Mrs. Smith said she could understand why someone would want only one child, creating an ABSOLUTE UPROAR in the house from her five kids. Mr. Smith explains she's upset because she can't care for all five kids the way she wishes she could, but there's a subtext of real frustration in Mrs. Smith's pronouncement, as well. No matter how hard she tries, life is always uncertain and keeps her anxious about taking care of everyone.
So. Light and enjoyable read, but with some darker undertones that kept it interesting.

thebookcure's review against another edition

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4.0

Loved the movie since I was a little kid. I was thrilled to find this beat up old paperback at a book sale. Tootie is even funnier in the book.

csd17's review against another edition

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3.0

Cute. Funny to think that when the film was made 1904 was our 1980. I had to go back and rewatch the film afterwards and found both to be charming. Here's wishing I lived in such a simple time -- with better dentists.

:)

lisafer's review against another edition

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3.0

I think most people pick up this book because they enjoyed the 1940s film adaptation. And I was among those people. I was pleasantly surprised to see a lot of familiar scenes and characters, and happy that my favorite of the Smith family (Agnes) was still enjoyable. But there was a certain flightiness to the characters and plot that surprised me; Esther and Rose, in particular, were far more shallow in the book.

I loved the format. Little vignettes focusing on every month up to the fair was a delightful way to enjoy the family (and a fascinating comparison to the film's seasonal approach). And I felt that the period was caught through description and action, rather than an informational dump.

It wasn't great literature, but it was a quick, fun read. I'm glad I went to the effort to find the book.

bookworm_mommy's review

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2.0

I was not thrilled with this book. I don't really know what I expected. The huge gaps in time between the chapters made it seem rather disjointed to me.
I think I'll watch the movie that's based on the book and see how it compares.

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