These books (it's a series) have been popular at my library, and I finally decided to read one. I thought this was the first when I picked it up, but Goodreads informs me it's the second. I understand the popularity. New Girl In Town is fun, easy to get into, and addresses both the things one might wonder about being a first daughter (do chefs prepare all your meals? What's it like having your own Secret Service Agent? What's the in-house chocolate shop like?), and experiences that are common to all kids in school situations, just maybe a bit amplified for Liberty (which table to sit at in the lunch room? When you have to choose one buddy for a field trip, how can you do it without making others mad? Why does everything have to be such a big deal?). DeVillers somewhat successfully (it can feel a bit forced) weaves in a number of facts about the White House, presidents and their kids, the Smithsonian, and Washington, DC. The excitement of Liberty and her classmates at seeing exhibits at the Natural Museum of American History seems a little over-the-top (having grown up in DC, I can guarantee that most local kids aren't particularly excited about seeing, for ex, inaugural gowns). In conclusion: yes, the book is fluffy (many sentences end with exclamation points, and the whole thing ends with an ice cream sundae party and conga line that includes the President and the First Lady), but Liberty's character offers some great examples of how to manage popularity and groups in elementary school (and of how pressured one can feel when in those situations), and I'll feel comfortable recommending this one to kids who haven't yet found it and are looking for something fun and easy-to-get-into (a good choice for reluctant readers). Gr 3-5–Liberty faces her first day at a new school in Washington, DC, and, like any fourth grader, she's excited and nervous about making new friends. Her welcoming and friendly nature backfires, however, when she won't join an exclusive threesome of girls in her class. One presidential-like speech later, Liberty points out that she can't be perfect but she does want to be friends with everyone who wants to be friends with her. This book ends with a playdate at the White House and a freeze-dance contest hosted by her parents. Liberty Porter is a spunky, winning girl with a deep love of chocolate and beanie dogs. She faces tough choices in her everyday life as the president's daughter and just another fourth grader. The young age of the current First Daughters, and an African-American Liberty pictured on the cover, make this series an obvious draw for kids interested in White House life. DeVillers keeps things on the light side, with plenty of presidential jokes. This is a quick fun read in which everything comes out right in the end. Black-and-white illustrations, some full page, feature the people and activities in Liberty's life. Reluctant readers may be put off by the inconsistent chapter length, but overall a solid choice.Richelle Roth, Boone County Public Library, KY
What do You think about New Girl In Town (2010)?
This is my favorite book series. How could you not like it!!!
—Kirsten
cute..:) I thought it was a good book, but really short.
—sweetgurl001
