The Doll’s House

Isabel, Lottie and Kezia Burnell received the exciting gift of a wonderful dolls house with real carpet, furniture with realistic features and a perfect lamp. They became the envy of their friends as they brought most of the girls’ home to see their pride and joy. There was just two girls not invited home, the Kelvey girls. The Kelvey sisters were not considered to be of the right kind of family to be brought home.

Originally written in 1922, Katherine Mansfield wrote this story of social status and class distinction with prejudice that parent passed to their children. Kevin Boon has stayed true to the original only editing out some of the more outdated language or irrelevant passages. Children may be intrigued by some of the language used and it could open discussions of comparison to modern times. The illustrations compliment the story beautifully and the delight portrayed on the sisters faces cannot help but bring a smile to your own.

I would recommend this book to slightly older primary readers but the greatest benefit would be sharing with a class and using it to support discussions around topics such as inclusion, social acceptance or discrimination.

Title: The Doll’s House

Author: Katherine Mansfield

Illustrator: Trish Bowles

Publisher: Kotuku Publishing

ISBN: 9780908947881

RRP: $20

Format: Paperback

Date of Publication: April 2016

Ages: 8+

Reviewer: Elaine Wills, Enner Glynn School, Nelson

How highly are you recommending this book? Recommended

Opening sentence? When OldMrs. Hay went back to town after staying with the Burnells she sent the children a doll’s house.

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