Mary Ellen Lee Reviews

Page One

Added June 10, 2006

My Horse Sally

Danny and Life on Bluff Point

Author: Mary Ellen Lee
Publisher: iUniverse
Available At: www.maryellenlee.com/order.html and most online bookstores
Publishing Date: August 2005
Genre: Middle Reader: Historical/Fiction
Format: Trade Paper
Price: $11.95
ISBN: 0-595-36084-X
Author Email/Website: www.maryellenlee.com/index.html
Reviewer: Joyce Hanzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

This fifth book in the series continues to follow young Danny Lee, as he grows up on his farm in upstate New York. The stories are all based on the life of the author's grandfather and take place at the turn of the nineteenth century. These pages offer young readers an accurate and exciting account of life during that time period, while also gently highlighting traditional morals and values.

In this novel, Danny learns some important things about riding and caring for his new horse. He also meets an interesting friend named Little Bird. This relationship provides some fascinating information about the Seneca Indian tribe, and allows for better understanding of this noble group of people. Throughout these pages, Danny lives his ordinary life that seems extraordinary to the modern reader.

Delightful drawings are placed appropriately, giving the narration a special charm. These childish renditions of horses, family members and friends make the account more real and personal. Danny is seen as an average boy, occasionally having a dispute with one of his sisters or possibly making a decision that turns out wrong. Yet, these experiences give him more credence with young readers, as both his failures and his successes are shown with honesty and grace.

Filled with historical accuracy and heart-warming incidents, the entire series is highly recommended. Readers will feel a bond with Danny as they watch him grow up and accept more responsibilities in each book. However, he becomes more than an example to follow; Danny Lee becomes a friend to enjoy.

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Added June 10, 2006

Danny and Life on Bluff Point

Author: Mary Ellen Lee
Publisher: Four Seasons Publishers
Available At: www.maryellenlee.com/order.html
Publishing Date: August 1999
Genre: Middle Reader: Historical/Fiction
Format: Trade Paper
Price: $11.95
ISBN: 1-891929-20-8
Author Email/Website: www.maryellenlee.com/index.html
Reviewer: Joyce Hanzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

What better way to experience history than through a firsthand account! Author Mary Ellen Lee has loosely based this novel on her grandfather's journals. She has creatively combined some real-life people and events with a dash of fiction to bring young readers a taste of this time period.

Ten-year-old Danny lives on a large fruit and livestock farm in upstate New York. The year is 1894 and life is decidedly different than today. These pages chronicle his everyday actions as he helps out at home, interacts with his parents and three sisters, and goes to a nearby school. Written in the first person, young readers will see things through Danny's eyes and might find their own eyes blinking in astonishment!

The book has a delightful cozy and conversational feel as Danny recounts ordinary events. His daily routine starts with many farm chores and ends with a family supper. A description of his school and studies, as well as his recreational activities, all provides a true sense of the time period. Danny's life is physically hard, and as a small boy he often struggles with the tasks that are set before him. His perseverance and courage provides many excellent examples for young readers to follow. Danger is often before him, which is seen with startling clarity as he comes face to face with a cougar. He also deals with a bully at school, and takes a higher approach to solving this problem than just using his fists.

This book is simply written, but leaves a lasting impression. These pages offer a fresh look into our own world, as it was over 100 years ago. Danny's family life and activities subtly speak of profound issues like morality, honesty and faithfulness. Young readers will spend their time wisely and wonderfully with Danny.

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