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Just Grace #8
Just Grace and the Flower Girl Power
Fresh, innovative, and loaded with laugh-out-loud wit and humor, Just Grace is a series that stands out from the pack, just like Grace herself. Author Charise Harper weaves together distinctive, quirky illustrations and vibrant characters in fast-paced stories that capture familiar school and family situations that every young girl can relate to in a truly authentic voice. Artist, comedian, animal-lover, environmentalist, cook, sister, good friend —Grace is the quintessential 3rd grader… just a little bit… different. In this eighth addition to the series—Grace has major problems. Her neighbor is getting married and she has to get over her disappointment at not being chosen for a flower girl, not to mention figure out what to give as a wedding present! But with a touch of girl power, Grace musters up a fantastic idea that takes a lot of planning and a little help from all of her friends; her dog, Mr. Scruffers; and Crinkles the cat. Will her plan go off without a hitch on wedding day?
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
19 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
February 3, 2018
This is my favorite one yet -- since #1, anyway. It has a wedding, flowers and Crinkles the cat in a starring role. What's not to like? Just Grace is such a fun series. She is totally eight years old and has a lot to learn and it is great fun watching her learn and grow while making a few goofs along the way. Practice makes perfect!
May 26, 2020
This book is so funny! I love reading her comic about how she got her name 'Just Grace'! In this book Grace wants to be the flower girl at her grown up friend's wedding but she gets an important job instead. Her life is so exciting to read about. I hope there are more books to come!:)
December 15, 2019
Another enjoyable JustGrace book. The comic book art project, Augustine Dupre gets married and Crinkles the Flower Cat performs her funny march across the grass.
Seems there is always just a little bit of naughtiness in these books. (quote below)
"On the way we passed the kitchen. She grabbed a plate of banana bread. Mimi is not allowed to take food up to her room, but no one saw her and I didn't say anything. And besides, this was not a normal day. This was a special occasion--it was a flower girl crisis!''
Seems there is always just a little bit of naughtiness in these books. (quote below)
"On the way we passed the kitchen. She grabbed a plate of banana bread. Mimi is not allowed to take food up to her room, but no one saw her and I didn't say anything. And besides, this was not a normal day. This was a special occasion--it was a flower girl crisis!''
November 11, 2025
In the beginning there where three Graces in the class so the teacher gave them different names. She named one of them Just Grace.
In the middle of the book Just Grace got told that she would be a flower girl for the wedding of her neighbor.
In the end of the book Just Grace was at the wedding and the bride told her that, her present was the best even though she did not even rap it up.
Yes I would recommend this book for younger kids.
o Who was your favorite character (and why)? Just Grace because she was curious.
o What surprised you? That Just Grace was a good flower girl.
o Would you change the ending? Why/why not? no I wouldn`t change the ending because Just Graces neighbors get married.
In the middle of the book Just Grace got told that she would be a flower girl for the wedding of her neighbor.
In the end of the book Just Grace was at the wedding and the bride told her that, her present was the best even though she did not even rap it up.
Yes I would recommend this book for younger kids.
o Who was your favorite character (and why)? Just Grace because she was curious.
o What surprised you? That Just Grace was a good flower girl.
o Would you change the ending? Why/why not? no I wouldn`t change the ending because Just Graces neighbors get married.
September 14, 2015
My 8-year-old daughter and I love this series in general, but I thought this one was particularly well done. It was very funny and sweet. A full review to follow.
Full review:
The Just Grace series has been a favorite of mine and my 8-year-old daughter's for several years now, so we were excited to hear about this latest in the series. I'm happy to say that with this eighth installment the series is not only going strong, I think this may be its best book yet. There will be some minor spoilers in this review.
This time around, Grace's dilemma centers on her wish to be a flower girl in her neighbor's upcoming wedding, and her attempts to deal with her devastation when she finds out that she isn't the lucky girl who's been selected. Harper does such a great job of conveying Grace's emotions, particularly in Grace's efforts to dissemble. I love the way Harper shows how Grace tries to navigate those waters, how she tries to maintain a facade of politeness when what she really wants to do is express her disappointment very vocally. I can see this in action with my own daughter, and I think it's one of those painful steps along the road to development, so I was very impressed by the authenticity of Grace's emotions.
Though disappointed, Grace spends a good portion of the book trying to come up with the perfect gift for the wedding. Her scheme is very involved and has plenty of hilarious, mad-cap moments. When it finally comes time for the unveiling of her plan, I found myself holding my breath, certain that things were going to go terribly wrong. I laughed out loud as I read the event's unfolding, and even had to pause and share with my husband, who's read several of the books along with my daughter.
Just Grace books are generally funny and charming, but I thought that was especially the case with this one. Aside from the wedding gift fiasco, there were several plot points that made me laugh out loud, such as Grace and Mimi worrying about what the groom might wear to the wedding. I was also very touched by the portrayal of Mimi's growing and evolving relationship with her new brother Robert, who makes for a nice addition to the cast of characters. As I also have a two-year-old son, my daughter has personal knowledge of what it's like to navigate sibling relationships, so this is a theme that definitely resonates with her.
A couple of books ago, I might have worried about there being an eighth (not to mention the end of the book drops hints about the ninth) book in the series. It's always a shame when a series starts out promising but then goes stale because the author has drawn it out for so long. I'm pleased that this isn't the case with the Just Grace books. Grace has shown a tremendous amount of growth and there have been some profound changes in her world that have helped the series to blossom and mature over time.
Full review:
The Just Grace series has been a favorite of mine and my 8-year-old daughter's for several years now, so we were excited to hear about this latest in the series. I'm happy to say that with this eighth installment the series is not only going strong, I think this may be its best book yet. There will be some minor spoilers in this review.
This time around, Grace's dilemma centers on her wish to be a flower girl in her neighbor's upcoming wedding, and her attempts to deal with her devastation when she finds out that she isn't the lucky girl who's been selected. Harper does such a great job of conveying Grace's emotions, particularly in Grace's efforts to dissemble. I love the way Harper shows how Grace tries to navigate those waters, how she tries to maintain a facade of politeness when what she really wants to do is express her disappointment very vocally. I can see this in action with my own daughter, and I think it's one of those painful steps along the road to development, so I was very impressed by the authenticity of Grace's emotions.
Though disappointed, Grace spends a good portion of the book trying to come up with the perfect gift for the wedding. Her scheme is very involved and has plenty of hilarious, mad-cap moments. When it finally comes time for the unveiling of her plan, I found myself holding my breath, certain that things were going to go terribly wrong. I laughed out loud as I read the event's unfolding, and even had to pause and share with my husband, who's read several of the books along with my daughter.
Just Grace books are generally funny and charming, but I thought that was especially the case with this one. Aside from the wedding gift fiasco, there were several plot points that made me laugh out loud, such as Grace and Mimi worrying about what the groom might wear to the wedding. I was also very touched by the portrayal of Mimi's growing and evolving relationship with her new brother Robert, who makes for a nice addition to the cast of characters. As I also have a two-year-old son, my daughter has personal knowledge of what it's like to navigate sibling relationships, so this is a theme that definitely resonates with her.
A couple of books ago, I might have worried about there being an eighth (not to mention the end of the book drops hints about the ninth) book in the series. It's always a shame when a series starts out promising but then goes stale because the author has drawn it out for so long. I'm pleased that this isn't the case with the Just Grace books. Grace has shown a tremendous amount of growth and there have been some profound changes in her world that have helped the series to blossom and mature over time.
December 19, 2016
This latest installment in one of my favorite chapter book series places its heroine at the center of a life event lots of little girls dream about - a wedding. Grace won’t get to be the flower girl for her special friend and neighbor Augustine Dupre, when she marries the UPS delivery man, but everyone assures Grace that she will have her own special job. While she waits for her assignment, Grace devises a special gift for Augustine Dupre - she and her friends will train Crinkles the cat to walk down the aisle.
As always, Charise Mericle Harper uses lots of humor and heart to relate Grace’s story. Even when her actions are completely misguided, Grace always has her heart in the right place, and readers can easily enjoy the antics that ensue from her off-the-wall ideas. Readers who have followed the series from the beginning will recognize lots of characters from previous books and hints at previous plot lines, and of course, all the wonderful little drawings that add such charm and character to every page.
I think it’s too bad that this book is packaged so obviously as a girl book - based on the bells and flowers on the front cover and Grace’s pink accessories - because the subplot would actually appeal to both boys and girls. Under the guidance of a creative teacher, Grace and her friends learn how to write comics and cartoons, and they compile them into a class book. Graphic novels are hugely popular these days, and I think all kids would enjoy reading the characters’ comics and trying to make their own. In fact, if I do a library program with graphic novels, I might use this book as a kind of introduction.
Just Grace and the Flower Girl Power will appeal to girls who love to dress up and feel fancy, and especially to girls who dream of being, or will be, flower girls in weddings. For a similar story about a girl witnessing a wedding, read Mallory on Board by Laurie Friedman.
As always, Charise Mericle Harper uses lots of humor and heart to relate Grace’s story. Even when her actions are completely misguided, Grace always has her heart in the right place, and readers can easily enjoy the antics that ensue from her off-the-wall ideas. Readers who have followed the series from the beginning will recognize lots of characters from previous books and hints at previous plot lines, and of course, all the wonderful little drawings that add such charm and character to every page.
I think it’s too bad that this book is packaged so obviously as a girl book - based on the bells and flowers on the front cover and Grace’s pink accessories - because the subplot would actually appeal to both boys and girls. Under the guidance of a creative teacher, Grace and her friends learn how to write comics and cartoons, and they compile them into a class book. Graphic novels are hugely popular these days, and I think all kids would enjoy reading the characters’ comics and trying to make their own. In fact, if I do a library program with graphic novels, I might use this book as a kind of introduction.
Just Grace and the Flower Girl Power will appeal to girls who love to dress up and feel fancy, and especially to girls who dream of being, or will be, flower girls in weddings. For a similar story about a girl witnessing a wedding, read Mallory on Board by Laurie Friedman.
April 11, 2012
I've enjoyed this series every since Grace was introduced seven books ago. While readers who have enjoyed Clementine, Amber Brown, and Judy Moody are likely to enjoy this one as well, there's just something endearingly different about Grace that makes her adventures appealing to me. I like her quirkiness and imperfectness, of course, but I also like her straightforwardness and her penchant for making lists. After explaining why she is known as Just Grace, the story moves right into Augustine Dupre's wedding plans. Augustine is Grace's older friend, someone she loves and respects. Although she won't get to be the flower girl for the wedding, Grace decides to give a special wedding present to Augustine: She'll train Crinkles, a neighbor's cat who adores Augustine, to walk down the aisle during the ceremony. This requires much work, much patience on Crinkle's part, and quite a bit of help from her friends. Although things don't go quite the way Grace plans, there is certainly one very surprised--and happy--bride waiting at the altar. Maybe it's because I'm a cat lover or possibly because of the way the story is told, but this book made me laugh out loud several times. I could just picture the dog, the cat, the squirrel, and the crackers. The pen-and-ink illustrations that have been digitally colored in Photoshop add to the pleasures of reading this book. Grace continues to hold great appeal for third and fourth grade readers. Watching her continue to grow throughout the series has been great fun.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2012
Just Grace and the Flower Girl Power by Charise Mericle Harper
The series Just Grace by Charise Mericle Harper continues to be a delight. Grace is a third grader in a class with many other girls named Grace. Her teacher asks her what she wants to be called in class and she responds; "Just Grace," and the name sticks. Told in a journalistic format with hand written text separating sections and sprinkled with illustrations and diagrams, in this installment Grace shares her experience of participating in her friend Augustine Dupre's wedding. Grace’s dog, Mr. Scruffers, and her friends Sammy, Max, Mimi and Robert become accomplices in an extensive plan to surprise Augustine at her wedding. There is also a subplot about a new school project- student’s making a collection of comics that fires up the kids.
Taking time to describe sensations and ideas that make sense to kids is one of Harper’s strengths.
“It was like eating something delicious and saying to your friend, “Hey, try this – it’s great.” And then both of you are eating and loving it together.”
“I never thought he was staying and visiting. That’s what’s weird about life- you have to pay attention or you miss stuff.”
Funny and sweet, this book (and the entire series), make a great read for kids age 6-9. The series is definitely focused towards girls but can be enjoyed by all readers.
The series Just Grace by Charise Mericle Harper continues to be a delight. Grace is a third grader in a class with many other girls named Grace. Her teacher asks her what she wants to be called in class and she responds; "Just Grace," and the name sticks. Told in a journalistic format with hand written text separating sections and sprinkled with illustrations and diagrams, in this installment Grace shares her experience of participating in her friend Augustine Dupre's wedding. Grace’s dog, Mr. Scruffers, and her friends Sammy, Max, Mimi and Robert become accomplices in an extensive plan to surprise Augustine at her wedding. There is also a subplot about a new school project- student’s making a collection of comics that fires up the kids.
Taking time to describe sensations and ideas that make sense to kids is one of Harper’s strengths.
“It was like eating something delicious and saying to your friend, “Hey, try this – it’s great.” And then both of you are eating and loving it together.”
“I never thought he was staying and visiting. That’s what’s weird about life- you have to pay attention or you miss stuff.”
Funny and sweet, this book (and the entire series), make a great read for kids age 6-9. The series is definitely focused towards girls but can be enjoyed by all readers.
May 20, 2012
Just Grace is a wonderful friend. She isn't always perfect, things don't always work out, but her intentions are always from the kindest, most thoughtful place in her heart. That's why I like her. In the first book from the Just Grace series we learn that Grace draws comics and that she has the super power of empathy. Those key strengths are carried with her throughout the series. Eight books later, Grace's neighbor, Augustine Dupre is getting married. How wonderful and exciting! But Grace is not chosen to be the flower girl. Once over that disappointment, she works to figure out how to support her friend and find a way to give her the best wedding present ever. (Silver bowls are boring!) It will take everyone working together - even Mr. Scruffers and Crinkles, the cat to make it happen. Grace has one chance to carry out her plan. You'll have to read Just Grace and the Flower Girl Power to see how it goes.
May 15, 2012
The storyline is simple and easy to follow for a middle elementary reader (strong 2nd grade through 4th grade). I enjoy that the illustrations in the book are more of a 'bonus' rather than something that is needed to understand the content (although it does make it more fun to read). The story is told from the perspective of Grace, the main character. She's saddened to hear that she won't be the flower girl in her friend and downstairs neighbor's wedding. However, she quickly turns that sadness into determination to give her friend the best wedding present ever. Overall, this is a nice change for the readers who enjoy Judy Moody and Katie Kazoo-type books.
December 15, 2012
This book was my least favorite book in the series. The main character Grace in the other books is always thinking about others, but in this book she decides that because she can't be the flower girl that she is going to train a pet cat to walk down the isle. It was a dumb idea for a book and I found it lacking what all the other Grace books have had so far-friendship and service. Again, this series is aimed at 2nd-4th graders-I read it for Isabelle. :)
August 20, 2012
Another delightfully sweet read about Just Grace. I love that this character is so honest about her feelings. I can often relate. In this title, Grace is surprised to learn that Augustine Dupre is getting married and disappointed that she won't get to play flower girl. But as befits Grace, she finds a way to shine anyway.
May 17, 2012
As always, just terrific. Great illustrations and an insightful glimpse into the mind of a young and empathetic "superhero". Grace and her friends feel very authentic. It's a lot of fun watching them grow up.
July 24, 2012
Continues to be a good series for lower-grade girls. I predict this one will be an immediate hit with most established readers because of the wedding-related theme, & the drawings & cartoons - supposedly done by Grace herself - continue to provide a great hook for reluctant readers.
April 22, 2016
Augustine Dupre has a wedding with her boyfriend named Luke. Grace wanted to be the flower girl but a different little girl got to be the flower girl. The little girl's name is Daphne. But Grace still finds a way to participate in the wedding.
June 3, 2012
This won't disappoint fans of the delightful Just Grace series. It's just as sweet as the other books. Fans of Allie Finkle, Clementine, Amber Brown, etc. should also be reading this.
December 28, 2012
I think you shouldn't try to interfere with someone else's wedding without telling them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2012
This series is fantastic.
February 3, 2013
Humorous school-age novel. Fun and witty. Enjoyed the comic-style illustrations. Good for readers in early to mid elementary.
October 1, 2017
The book was amazing.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews