Saving Marissa

Doll Hospital #4

by Joan Holub, Ann Losa (Illustrator), Cheryl Kirk Noll (Illustrator)

The fourth book in the Doll Hospital series tells the dual stories of a beloved 1950s babydoll and modern-day sisters Rose and Lila.

Sisters Rose and Lila, ages 10 and 8, are spending the year with their grandmother (who runs a doll hospital) while their parents are working out of the country. Their grandmother has a special power to communicate with dolls, and to tell their stories.

In this book, the girls find a damaged babydoll at the home of their babysitter, Jill, an older woman who lives in the neighborhood. Rose and Lila persuade Far Nana to restore the doll, and the girls learn its story. The doll, Marissa, belonged to Jill when she was a little girl. Marissa was a gift from Jill's beloved aunt. (cont.)

Genres: Historical Fiction

128 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2003

About the author

NY Times bestselling children's book author:
GODDESS GIRLS series + HEROES IN TRAINING series (w Suzanne Williams); THIS LITTLE TRAILBLAZER a Girl Power Primer; ZERO THE HERO; I AM THE SHARK. Lucky to be doing what I love!

Reviews

[Laura DeGrave · Rating 5 out of 5]

An endearing tale within a tale using the doll's point of view on return to its rightful owner.
Children learn the value of caring for an emotional momento of their youthful memories.
The author captures all aspects fully and ends on a gracious heartfill warmth.
It contains 'Toy Story' vibes in a '50's setting.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Saving Marissa is a sweet addition to the Doll Hospital series. The charming adventures of Rose, Lila, and beloved dolls continue!

[Karina B. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is good but it could have been better. Its about two girls who spend a day at a daycare and find a very old looking doll. The girls take it home and show it to their grandma, who can actually talk to dolls.