Girl Around The World
Holiday Journal
by Dina Jordan and Elizabeth Forbes
35 pages

The fun begins on the last day of school at the United Nations Academy, when Valentina and her three best friends are asked to keep a two week holiday journal. As the girls are from all around the world they decide to call it their Girl Around the World Holiday Journal.

Valentina's journal begins with her return to Paris with her mom. "Maman" is an artist who also works as a fashion model. Tagging along with Maman to a fitting for an upcoming fashion show, Valentina is surprised to be asked by the designer to be in the show too! The show is to take place in Provence and the rest of her journal chronicles their journey from Paris to Provence. Valentina shares facts and impressions about visits to ancient castles and cathedrals. Museums are of special interest to her because what she really wants is to be an artist like Maman. Valentina's sketches of the places she visits, the paintings she sees, and her very own daydreams add charming commentary to her enthusiastic observations.

Valentina shares emotional feelings as well. She experiences her first crush on a boy she meets at a fashion shoot. She learns to be patient with a younger friend who can't always keep up with her. And she's always declaring her true love for her adorable little dog Beau Beau, who is never far from her side.

6-11 year-olds will quickly identify with Valentina as a familiar friend who shares their hopes and dreams. They'll be drawn to the mystery of a faraway land and laugh at Beau Beau's antics. They'll learn french words, snippets of history, and may even be inspired to start their own journal.