4.22
Part of "Betsy-Tacy" series
"Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown" is the third book in Maud Hart Lovelace's beloved series about the adventures of two best friends, Betsy Ray and Tacy Kelly, growing up in a small Minnesota town at the turn of the 20th century. In this installment, Betsy and Tacy are nine years old and eager to explore the world beyond their familiar neighborhood. With the help of their new friend, Tib Muller, the girls venture downtown for the first time. They are enchanted by the sights and sounds of the city, from the bustling streets and the grand Carnegie Library to the exotic food at the Hungarian restaurant. Along the way, they make new friends, have their first taste of independence, and learn valuable lessons about responsibility and friendship. Lovelace's writing is warm and engaging, capturing the innocence and excitement of childhood. The book is rich in historical detail, providing a fascinating glimpse into life in the early 1900s. At the same time, the themes of friendship, curiosity, and self-discovery are timeless, making "Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown" a delightful read for readers of all ages. The book is also notable for its positive portrayal of female friendship. Betsy, Tacy, and Tib are strong, confident girls who support and encourage each other. They are not afraid to take risks and follow their dreams, and their friendship is a source of strength and inspiration. Overall, "Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown" is a charming and memorable addition to the series. It is a heartwarming celebration of friendship, independence, and the joys of discovery...
Elizabeth Enright
The Saturdays
Join the four Melendy children as they embark on a bold plan to earn their own money for special outings in this Newbery Medal-winning classic. This book shares the same nostalgic and heartwarming tone as 'Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown' and features a group of friends navigating their world with spirit and curiosity.
Learn MoreSydney Taylor
All-of-a-Kind Family
In this charming series opener, five sisters living in New York City at the turn of the 20th century share adventures, both big and small. Like 'Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown', this book highlights the joys and challenges of childhood friendships and growing up in a close-knit community.
Learn MoreJeanne Birdsall
The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy
This Newbery Honor Book tells the story of four adventurous sisters who spend a summer in the country and discover friendship, love, and self-discovery. The warmth and humor in this novel will remind readers of 'Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown' and its focus on sisterhood and friendship.
Learn MoreMildred D. Taylor
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
Set in the racially charged 1930s South, this Newbery Medal-winning novel follows the Logan family as they fight for their rights and dignity. While the setting and themes are different from 'Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown', the strong sense of family and community will resonate with readers.
Learn MoreBeverly Cleary
Dear Mr. Henshaw
In this Newbery Medal-winning novel, sixth-grader Leigh Botts begins writing letters to his favorite author, Mr. Henshaw, as a way to cope with his parents' divorce and the challenges of growing up. This book shares the same heartfelt and relatable tone as 'Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown'.
Learn MoreFrances Hodgson Burnett
The Secret Garden
When Mary Lennox, a spoiled and lonely young girl, is sent to live with her uncle in the English countryside, she discovers a mysterious walled garden and a hidden world of friendship and magic. This classic novel, like 'Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown', explores themes of growth, discovery, and the power of friendship.
Learn MoreE.L. Konigsburg
The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
Two siblings run away to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art and uncover a mystery involving a statue, a missing angel, and a reclusive benefactor. This Newbery Medal-winning novel shares the same sense of adventure and independence as 'Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown'.
Learn MoreKatherine Paterson
The Great Gilly Hopkins
Gilly Hopkins, a feisty and unruly 11-year-old, longs for a family to call her own. When she is sent to live with her latest foster family, she discovers the true meaning of love and acceptance. This Newbery Honor Book shares the same themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery as 'Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown'.
Learn MoreZilpha Keatley Snyder
The Changeling
In this Newbery Honor Book, a young girl named Martha discovers a mysterious, otherworldly companion and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. This novel shares the same sense of wonder, imagination, and friendship as 'Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown'.
Learn MoreKatherine Paterson
Bridge To Terabithia
Two young friends, Jesse Aarons and Leslie Burke, create a magical kingdom called Terabithia in the woods near their homes. When tragedy strikes, Jesse must learn to cope with loss and find solace in the memories of their friendship. This Newbery Medal-winning novel shares the same themes of friendship, imagination, and growing up as 'Betsy and Tacy Go Downtown'.
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