Children's Literature

Ignatius B. Grumply is the author of a children's fiction series about ghosts. Although Mr. Grumply's publisher has advanced him $100,000 for his next book, he seems unable to get started. In fact, he has had trouble getting started for more than ten years. That is why, in desperation, Mr. Grumply begins a correspondence with Anita Sale, a realtor. Anita assists Mr. Grumply in finding a quiet, restful location to spend his summer where he can again begin writing. Once Mr. Grumply's attorney and friend, E. Gadds, reviews and signs the lease agreement on Mr. Grumply's behalf, Mr. Grumply is ready to move in and start writing. In his haste, Mr. Grumply has failed to see that the lease contract also contains a clause about a certain young man and his cat, who have already set up residence in the house. When "Iggy" Grumply, as he becomes known, discovers the young man, Seymour, he is indignant that changes be made to the arrangements. It will be Seymour, his cat Shadow, and an unseen friend, however, who will become the muse for Iggy's newest title. This is a delightful tale, with shadings of the "Lemony Snicket" series, with the pencil drawings, introductions of characters on the front flap, and similar warnings about beginning the tale all included in the opening pages. Upper elementary students will be captivated with these characters and will await the sequel with true devotion. The richness of the writing and illustrations of the Klise sisters is a winning combination. This would be a great Christmas gift for the six to ten year old crowd, to share in a read-aloud and to read alone, under the covers with a flashlight. Reviewer: Joyce Rice