The Luck of Pokey Bloom

by Ellen Conford

A young girl learns that winning and getting along with people is often more than a matter of luck.

Genres: Childrens, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult

Paperback

First published January 1, 1975

About the author

Ellen Conford was an author for children and young adults. Among her writings are the Annabel the Actress and Jenny Archer series. Her books have won the Best Book of the Year Citation, Best Book of the International Interest Citation, Best Book of the Year for Children, Parents' Choice Award, and more.

Reviews

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

Note: I base my rating on my subjective experience of the book at the time I read it.

I loved this book when I was a kid. Pokey wants to win contests - I don't even remember if she ever does win a contest, but I remember relating to the fantasy. I just flipped through it and, although it has simple language, I think it might be able to stand up to re-reading as an adult. Here is a quick passage that made me laugh. (Not a spoiler.)

Gordon stalked out of the kitchen... and they heard the closet door slam.
"There he goes again," Pokey commented.
"Why does he have to lock himself in the closet every time he uses the phone?"
"I guess he likes privacy," her mother said.
"Did it ever occur to you," Mr. Bloom said darkly, "that he might just like closets?"

[Susann · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's hard to believe that Pokey can't figure out what's going on with her brother, but this is still a fun read. I like Conford's parents, especially when they get grouchy.

Bought at Park Slope Unitarian Church book sale.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Secret" for the YA set. LOVED this book. Mine had an awesome cover of a girl's face looking upward and smirking. I think in a turtleneck & sweater. Perfect!

[Aurora Dimitre · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was cute. Reminded me of going on J14.com as a kid and entering all the sweepstakes.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute book read in gradeschool

[Catherine Mustread · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charlotte, better known as Pokey, enters every contest she can find. Then she hears amoust a method of winning. Why is her brother acting so strange? Grades 4+

[Becca · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book had okay writing, but was very predictable. Sloppy writing in parts, and just...meh.