Violet Bing and the Grand House

By Jennifer Paros

In the tradition of literary classics like The Secret Garden comes this irresistible story about a girl who doesn?t want to go anywhere or do anything. Violet Bing has even said no? to the family vacation, so she is sent to stay with her great-aunt Astrid instead. As usual, Violet is determined to dislike everything about her stay. But with the help of a stray dog, a new friend, and an old diary, Violet discovers that?even for her?fun is hard to avoid at The Grand House. Written in a charming, original voice, and overflowing with richly detailed black-and-white drawings, this book is truly a classic-in-waiting.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0670061514
• ISBN13: 9780670061518
• Release Date: April 2007
• Publisher: Viking Juvenile
• Length: 105 Pages
• Weight: 0.56 lbs.
• Dimensions: 7.8" x 0.6" x 5.6"
• Age Range: 7 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 2 and higher

Customer Reviews

Great book for girls

My wife got this book on an impulse, and my daughter, a nine-year-old voracious reader, liked it so much she asked me to look for more books by Jennifer Paros. She was disappointed to see that this is her only title. Therefore, Ms. Paros, be encouraged and write more! I quote my daughter: "The book was funny, and Violet Bing is sure to thrive. Please make it a series."

Charming words, charming illustrations

Violet Bing is seven, almost eight. She has said no to the family vacation this year and will spend the time with the unknown Great Aunt Astrid in the Grand House. She announces to her great aunt that she hasn't the time to do any of the things Astrid has planned for her. She doesn't want to leave the house, not even for a picnic. She prefers to spend her days in her room, sitting on the large yellow chair she has pushed to the window. It is from her perch in the chair that she first sees the dog, and the girl chasing it. She catches the dog and becomes friendly with Magnolia Greene Gold who has a completely different outlook on life than Violet. Through exploring the house, Violet comes to realize she isn't the only one who has ever been uncomfortable with the way things are. Old notes and journal entries let Violet know Aunt Astrid had some questions of her own when she was young. Line drawings of the triangle shaped girl with a few wisps of hair are charming. Written in an original sweet, humorous style, this book will surely be a favorite. Armchair Interviews says: Hopefully Violet Bing will be back in another story soon.

Violet dislikes adventures and surprises of any kind....

Violet Odelia Bing, a precocious seven-year-old, spends the summer with her great-aunt Astrid when she refuses to go on vacation with her family. Saying "no" is not at all unusual for Violet; in fact it is quite common. She says "no" to bumpy pancakes, swimming and eating out. Violet dislikes adventures and surprises of any kind. As a matter of fact, she is determined not to have any new experiences during her break. Violet's great-aunt lives in a grand house filled with antique furniture, pictures, rugs vases and breakable things. However, the house doesn't seem so grand to Violet --- just old and big. Aunt Astrid is very excited to meet her great-niece and suggests many activities that most little girls would find appealing, such as swimming, bike riding, reading and picnicking. Unfortunately, Violet refuses to explore the house or go on outings with her great-aunt; instead she prefers to sit in the large yellow chair in her room and stare out the window. One day, Violet spies someone carrying a picnic basket and wandering around outside. She helps Magnolia Green Gold find her pet, and incredibly a friendship is born. With a little help from a new dog, a best friend and a mysterious diary, Violet has a memorable summer filled with grand adventures. VIOLET BING AND THE GRAND HOUSE, Jennifer Paros's first book, is a story about a young girl who finds herself by taking chances and being involved in activities she normally wouldn't be a part of. Those who are shy and feel uncomfortable around others will relate to Violet and care about what happens to her. --- Reviewed by Renee Kirchner