The Penderwicks on Gardam Street

Reader’s Review

This is the second book in the popular Penderwicks series. It is certainly well-written, entertaining, with lovable characters. However, this book may be of concern to parents and educators as the story revolves around the escapades of the girls’ father as he reluctantly begins dating on the wishes of his late wife. The girls are scared at the idea of anyone taking the place of their mother and so they plot to set him up women that he will never get along with. In the end he finds someone they all love. The theme may be mature for younger kids.

To look out for

• Islamic Value: Father’s sister urges him to start dating, helps him to find women. The girls get involved. In another plot two of the sisters fool their teachers by switching homework assignments, and cause a great deal of drama as a result. In the end the confess the truth. Their father also uses deception to get out of dating.
• Romance: Dating is a common theme throughout the book. The oldest sisters is very interested in boys, and the mention of the girls liking guys is frequent. Towards the end of the book it is very clear the father develops feelings for their neighbor, and eventually when the girls approve, he chooses to marry her.