hillaryvillagers

The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips

Michael Morpurgo

This is the wonderful story of a twelve-year-old boy and a piece of mail that changes his life. Tucked inside a large envelope, Michael finds his Grandma Lily’s old diary. Grandma’s letter urges Michael to read her diary first so that he will understand her surprising news. Mindful of his grandma’s request, Michael starts to read. In 1943, twelve-year-old Lily lives on a farm with her mum and grandfather. Her dad is away at war. Lily’s village is ordered to evacuate so that the Allies can perform training exercises. Lily’s beloved cat, Tips, escapes during the move. Lily secretly returns home to search for Tips but a young American soldier, Adolphus, promises to find Tips. Adolphus keeps his word and Lily renames her cat Adolphus Tips. When Michael finishes the diary he is pleasantly surprised to read that his grandma has recently married her childhood sweetheart, Adolphus. Although this title reads like a true story, it is a work of fiction. Morpurgo brings the realistic characters and events to life. Readers will learn interesting facts about World War II while reading this novel. Grandma’s character demonstrates devotion and commitment because she remains with and cares for Michael’s ill grandpa until his death. There is something for every reader in this novel—animals, family, friendship, romance, true love, and war. Morpurgo’s well-written story reminds the reader that their words and deeds affect others.

BIBLIO: 2005, Scholastic Press/Scholastic Inc, Ages 8 up, $15.99.

REVIEWER: Mary Jo Edwards

FORMAT: Middle Reader

ISBN: 0-439-79661-X

www.childrenslit.com

MJ, what a beautiful story.  Your review brings life and truth to it.  Thanks for sharing.  A great Thanksgiving family story.

You loved this book, right MJ?  This looks like one for children's Christmas lists.

Wouldn't this be a great movie? 

Normita and Taylor, this book was one of my favorites.  I recently gave a bunch of my (age-appropriate) books to Zoe and asked that she and her mom donate them to her school after she finishes reading them.

I'm recommending this book to my friends who belong to book clubs.  It is a delightful read.  A book club could read this and "The Guerney Literary and Potato Peel Society" during the same month.

MJ, I will get this for my grandkids - they are both avid readers!  This is one of my faves as well.

Normita, be sure to read it yourself before you give it to your grandchild.  Adults will like this book.

Taylor, I have this book on my list when I go to the book store.  I normally pass the books over to the parents who are also avid readers.  We exchange books to read.