Red, White, and True Blue Mallory »

Laurie Friedman is the author of the Mallory series, as well as the picture books I'm Not Afraid of This Haunted House, and Love, Ruby Valentine. She lives in Coral Gables, Florida, with her husband and two children

Jennifer Kalis has illustrated several books for children including, Campfire Mallory and Step Fourth, Mallory. Her artwork has also appeared in many magazines such as Girls' Life Magazine and American Girl Magazine. Ms. Kalis lives in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband and two children.

Mallory is in Washington, D.C. with her fourth grade class. She can't wait to see the famous monuments and museums. But from the moment she sets foot in the nation's capital, there's one thing she doesn't see much of . . . her best friend. Mary Ann is spending so much time with the new boy in their class, she's forgotten all about being partners with Mallory. And when Mallory wanders off to wiggle her loose tooth, her tooth isn't the only thing that is lost! Will Mallory's trip to Washington turn out to be one she'll always remember or something she'd rather forget?

Children's Literature

When fourth grade Mallory McDonald's class goes on a trip to Washington, D.C., her teacher requires the students to keep a journal chronicling the places they visit and their reactions. Mallory fills her journal with not only writing but also cartoon panels, doodles, pictures, and other mementos from the journey. She follows some writing prompts from her teacher to capture her impressions of the various monuments and museums the class visits, listing interesting facts and observations. Additionally, she uses her journal to work through her feelings about her best friend Mary Ann, getting a crush on a boy, and choosing to spend more of the trip with him than with Mallory. Mallory's teacher has packed the itinerary full of sightseeing so there is already plenty to write about. But add in trouble with friends, getting separated from the group while in the Museum of Natural History, an irritating loose tooth, and annoying hotel roommates and Mallory's trip becomes much more eventful than she had anticipated. Mallory's journal provides readers with an educational mini-tour of celebrated attractions in the nation's capital. Though part of the "Mallory" series, this title easily stands on its own. Mallory is totally likeable and her enthusiasm for the trip and her common worries will quickly endear her to new readers. The engaging format of a hand-written journal filled with whimsical illustrations will remind readers of Marissa Moss's "Amelia" books. Reviewer: Amanda MacGregor