Ella and Olivia - 4 - The New Girl product reviews

This is the forth Ella and Olivia book I've read to my daughter and this is the only one she hasn't enjoyed. It isn't because there is anything wrong with the story it is because the story isn't something a four year old can relate to. The child really needs to be in the school environment. I will definitely be holding on to the book for when she is older.

The story would be best suited to a girl between six and eight years of age. The younger child could listen to the story whereas the older ones could read it themselves. It is broken up into chapters but could easily be read in one sitting.

The one thing my daughter could relate to was the idea of helping your younger sister. Like Ella and Olivia my girls are also eighteen months apart and my youngest wants to do everything her big four year old sister does.

Most of the story is about accepting changes in your life. The main change was a new girl in the class who was very opinionated and annoyed Ella. Of course the biggest change was for Millie, the new girl, in a new town, home and school.

I am looking forward to reading more of Ella and Olivia's stories.

This book is about being new at primary (or big) school. Everyone probably remembers their first day at a new school (even if it was at high school or University). The range of emotions are covered for the reader, from excitment of a new adventure, to nerves. So its quite a familiar theme.

There is also a bit of bullying that happens in this book which was familiar ground too. I liked how it was all dealt with. I especially liked how each child's feelings were laid out and the way their exchanges sounded authentically like children. It made it real and interesting to read.

Like the other Ella and Olivia book I read, the font is nice and big. The words are clear to read. The sentences are punchy and short. Its a good introduction to a chapter reader for younger readers.

The illustrations are in black and white. I thought that was good because it doesn't distract from the words but they help build the scene in your mind. At $10 this is a quick read, but it is an easy read too. I could happily re-read this with my children. Once my daughter's confidence in reading longer books is increased I can see that she will read this to me or her sister or even by herself.

I also think it will be good to cement ideas around feelings, friendships and bullying for her. She is just new at school herself and is busy navigating all that stuff.