Pippa Passes

by Scott Corbett

Pippa Phillips, everybody's favorite child star, came pelting off the train and eleven year old Meg Kendrick, dependably in charge of her eight year old sister Lulie, found herself dazzled into an accomplice role. Orphaned Pippa Phillips' announced intention was to get away from an aunt and uncle exploiting her and lie low just long enough for another uncle who would provide her with a comfortable, non-working obscurity to return from abroad. Plausible girl's adventure, humorously directed toward an understated insight into motives and responsibilities.

Genres: Childrens

127 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1966

About the author

Scott Corbett (July 27, 1913 – March 6, 2006) was an American novelist and educator. He wrote five adult novels, the first published in 1950, and then began writing books for children. He retired from teaching in 1965 to write full-time. His best known book is The Lemonade Trick, a children's novel.

Reviews

[CLM · Rating 5 out of 5]

My nieces love this as much as Clare and I did. I made a tape for them, which they listened to along with Betsy Tacy and Tib and Winona's Pony Cart until the cassettes fell apart.

[Martine]

Why did I get so frustrated with Pippa? I was thoroughly enjoying her character and the dynamics among the girls—until that moment. Let’s just say, it threw me. Meanwhile, I found myself wondering how long Meg would keep exploring her conscience before actually taking action. In the end, she seemed to be rewarded for lying, which left me conflicted. I wanted her to succeed, but I also wanted her to face her moral responsibilities.

What struck me most was how the story felt more like an exploration of Meg’s character development than a focus on Pippa, as I initially expected. While I wasn’t upset by this shift, I did wish the young actress had lived up to her potential.

That said, the book delivered all the expected emotional highs and lows, which is impressive given that my perspective as an adult differs from how a child might experience the story. Overall, it was a pleasant read, and for that, I’d say—well done.

[Jan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another book that I am sure I would have loved as a kid, but doesn't quite cut it as an adult. The girls are going to camp and help a famous child star in distress.