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Rosetown #1
Rosetown
“Eloquent and resonant…poignantly underscores the significance of family, friendship, and home.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“Gentle and old-fashioned in the best sense…a little gem about small-town life.” — Booklist (starred review)
“A sweet story for children dealing with change.” — Kirkus Reviews
From Newbery Medalist Cynthia Rylant comes the charming story of nine-year-old Flora Smallwood and the eventful year she spends in the quiet community of Rosetown, Indiana.
For nine-year-old Flora Smallwood, Rosetown, Indiana, is full of surprises, many of the best of which happen at the Wing and a Chair Used Book Shop, where she loves to read vintage children’s books after school in the faded purple chair by the window.
But lately, those surprises haven’t been so good. Her dear old dog, Laurence, recently passed away. Not long after, her parents decided to take a breather from their marriage, and now Flora has to move back and forth between their two houses. Plus, she’s just begun fourth grade, and it is so much different than third.
Luckily Flora has two wonderful friends—one old and one new. And with them around to share thoughts and laughs and adventures big and small, life in Rosetown still has many sweet moments—and even some very happy surprises!
“Gentle and old-fashioned in the best sense…a little gem about small-town life.” — Booklist (starred review)
“A sweet story for children dealing with change.” — Kirkus Reviews
From Newbery Medalist Cynthia Rylant comes the charming story of nine-year-old Flora Smallwood and the eventful year she spends in the quiet community of Rosetown, Indiana.
For nine-year-old Flora Smallwood, Rosetown, Indiana, is full of surprises, many of the best of which happen at the Wing and a Chair Used Book Shop, where she loves to read vintage children’s books after school in the faded purple chair by the window.
But lately, those surprises haven’t been so good. Her dear old dog, Laurence, recently passed away. Not long after, her parents decided to take a breather from their marriage, and now Flora has to move back and forth between their two houses. Plus, she’s just begun fourth grade, and it is so much different than third.
Luckily Flora has two wonderful friends—one old and one new. And with them around to share thoughts and laughs and adventures big and small, life in Rosetown still has many sweet moments—and even some very happy surprises!
160 pages, Paperback
First published May 8, 2018
15 people are currently reading
510 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Rylant
513 books859 followersAn author of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry for children and young adults as well as an author and author/illustrator of picture books for children, Cynthia Rylant is recognized as a gifted writer who has contributed memorably to several genres of juvenile literature. A prolific author who often bases her works on her own background, especially on her childhood in the West Virginia mountains, she is the creator of contemporary novels and historical fiction for young adults, middle-grade fiction and fantasy, lyrical prose poems, beginning readers, collections of short stories, volumes of poetry and verse, books of prayers and blessings, two autobiographies, and a biography of three well-known children's writers; several volumes of the author's fiction and picture books are published in series, including the popular "Henry and Mudge" easy readers about a small boy and his very large dog.
Rylant is perhaps most well known as a novelist. Characteristically, she portrays introspective, compassionate young people who live in rural settings or in small towns and who tend to be set apart from their peers.
from bookrags.com
Rylant is perhaps most well known as a novelist. Characteristically, she portrays introspective, compassionate young people who live in rural settings or in small towns and who tend to be set apart from their peers.
from bookrags.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
May 1, 2023
What is sweeter than listening to a story about bookshops, old books and the slow rhythm of a small forgotton town?
It's not usual from a nine years old girl to value her monotonous life in a modest quiet place like Rosetown. Flora knew that the world outside this unknown Idaho town is vast and more colourful. Yet, her passion for exploring that world didn't make her less sure that nothing will be more previous to her heart than home.
It's a sincere feeling that is no more being felt.
The slow pace of events was so calming and relaxing for me. Cynthia Rylant made me feel present in the story's setting. It was perfect as it always was with the other works i read for her.
It's not usual from a nine years old girl to value her monotonous life in a modest quiet place like Rosetown. Flora knew that the world outside this unknown Idaho town is vast and more colourful. Yet, her passion for exploring that world didn't make her less sure that nothing will be more previous to her heart than home.
It's a sincere feeling that is no more being felt.
The slow pace of events was so calming and relaxing for me. Cynthia Rylant made me feel present in the story's setting. It was perfect as it always was with the other works i read for her.
March 17, 2019
Rosetown, much like the novels of Lynne Rae Perkins and Kevin Henkes, finds profundity not in intense drama or a high-stakes plot, but the banalities of regular life. It relates the quiet story of nine-year-old Flora Smallwood in 1972 small-town America. Flora is sad that her parents are separated; they aren't divorced, just living in different houses, but Flora feels the hurt even if she never vocalizes it. To make it worse, her dog Laurence died this past spring, and Flora takes comfort by cozying up to read in the velveteen chair in the window of her favorite used bookstore, Wings and a Chair Used Books. Rosetown, Indiana is a small Midwestern burg, but Flora finds it to be soothing amid uncertainty. She's nervous entering fourth grade beside kids who all seem more confident than last year, but Flora makes friends with Yury, who recently moved to America from the Ukraine. His cat died not long ago, so he understands Flora's grief over Laurence, and Yury enjoys visiting Wings and a Chair Used Books with Flora to peruse the antique novels. It's a friendship they both need.
Episodic by design, Rosetown observes Flora and Yury adjusting to life's changes the year they turn ten. A cat with a white tail and yellow tip is seen around Wings and a Chair Used Books, and Flora begs Miss Meriwether, the store owner, to call her if she tracks the cat down. The underfed stray happily accepts Flora's invitation into her family, and Flora names her Serenity. Yury gets a furry companion of his own, a puppy he names Friday, and works hard to train him. Flora's other friend, Nessy, is in third grade, but they've known each other half their lives, and Flora is only comfortable trying new things if Nessy can join her. This pays off when Flora agrees to piano lessons; Flora likes it, but Nessy turns out to be a natural. She might play professionally someday if she chooses to hone her gift.
The days leading to Christmas take a detour after Miss Meriwether departs for Paris on a brief vacation. Flora's mother is asked to run the bookstore, but Miss Meriwether will be home by Christmas Eve so the Smallwoods can concentrate on holiday cheer. When snowfall delays her airplane, however, and obstructs the entrance to Wings and a Chair Used Books, Yury is needed to save Christmas Eve. Grateful for the Smallwoods' help while she went to Paris, Miss Meriwether buys Flora a necklace as a present and invites mother and daughter to her chic apartment for a special dinner. Small-town life is made up of just such moments Flora won't soon forget. As spring fully blooms, Flora's father suggests he take her and her mother to see the April Lyrids meteor shower. On a tranquil night under the stars, Flora realizes from the way her parents interact that their separation isn't long for this world. She's ignored the ache in her heart these many months, but won't have to much longer. At school, Flora's teacher encourages her to develop her writing skills; she has talent for storytelling. And what better avenue to eventual publication than the printing shop her parents have bought and decided to run? Rosetown Paper and Press is going to be the next chapter in the Smallwoods' lives together. The past won't be forgotten; Flora will recall the sad months her parents spent apart and how it felt when her dog died, but there's a vibrant future to live for, and friends and family to cohabit it with Flora. She's eager to see what happens next.
Flora, Yury, and Nessy are lovable characters I'm privileged to have spent time with. Cynthia Rylant knows how to mine everyday life for flakes of gold, and the results are lovely. Rosetown is unexceptional on the surface, but rings true against the highs and lows of our own lives, moments more subtle than sublime. Joy isn't typically found in transformative encounters, but in the rich texture of thousands of days of simple, slow progress toward improving ourselves however we're able. Rosetown isn't as powerful as Missing May, Cynthia Rylant's 1993 Newbery Medal winner, but it's good nourishment for the sensitive reader, and I rate it two and a half stars. I don't hesitate to recommend this novel.
Episodic by design, Rosetown observes Flora and Yury adjusting to life's changes the year they turn ten. A cat with a white tail and yellow tip is seen around Wings and a Chair Used Books, and Flora begs Miss Meriwether, the store owner, to call her if she tracks the cat down. The underfed stray happily accepts Flora's invitation into her family, and Flora names her Serenity. Yury gets a furry companion of his own, a puppy he names Friday, and works hard to train him. Flora's other friend, Nessy, is in third grade, but they've known each other half their lives, and Flora is only comfortable trying new things if Nessy can join her. This pays off when Flora agrees to piano lessons; Flora likes it, but Nessy turns out to be a natural. She might play professionally someday if she chooses to hone her gift.
The days leading to Christmas take a detour after Miss Meriwether departs for Paris on a brief vacation. Flora's mother is asked to run the bookstore, but Miss Meriwether will be home by Christmas Eve so the Smallwoods can concentrate on holiday cheer. When snowfall delays her airplane, however, and obstructs the entrance to Wings and a Chair Used Books, Yury is needed to save Christmas Eve. Grateful for the Smallwoods' help while she went to Paris, Miss Meriwether buys Flora a necklace as a present and invites mother and daughter to her chic apartment for a special dinner. Small-town life is made up of just such moments Flora won't soon forget. As spring fully blooms, Flora's father suggests he take her and her mother to see the April Lyrids meteor shower. On a tranquil night under the stars, Flora realizes from the way her parents interact that their separation isn't long for this world. She's ignored the ache in her heart these many months, but won't have to much longer. At school, Flora's teacher encourages her to develop her writing skills; she has talent for storytelling. And what better avenue to eventual publication than the printing shop her parents have bought and decided to run? Rosetown Paper and Press is going to be the next chapter in the Smallwoods' lives together. The past won't be forgotten; Flora will recall the sad months her parents spent apart and how it felt when her dog died, but there's a vibrant future to live for, and friends and family to cohabit it with Flora. She's eager to see what happens next.
Flora, Yury, and Nessy are lovable characters I'm privileged to have spent time with. Cynthia Rylant knows how to mine everyday life for flakes of gold, and the results are lovely. Rosetown is unexceptional on the surface, but rings true against the highs and lows of our own lives, moments more subtle than sublime. Joy isn't typically found in transformative encounters, but in the rich texture of thousands of days of simple, slow progress toward improving ourselves however we're able. Rosetown isn't as powerful as Missing May, Cynthia Rylant's 1993 Newbery Medal winner, but it's good nourishment for the sensitive reader, and I rate it two and a half stars. I don't hesitate to recommend this novel.
March 23, 2018
This book earns a contended sigh. Flora Smallwood's favorite place in the world is Wings and a Chair Used Books on Main Street in Rosetown, Indiana. Three afternoons a week she curls up in the purple velveteen chair reading "extra vintage" books. Over the course of her fourth grade school year (1972-1973) old soul Flora welcomes a new friend from the Ukraine into her life, travels back and forth between her recently separated parents' houses, and adopts a beloved cat, Serenity.
Although there is mention of the Vietnam War and her parent's trial separation, this book is largely without conflict. For the most part, life in small town Indiana is pretty groovy and Flora herself is one who appreciates the little things. She cherishes the people in her life, she loves her home town, loves her routine, enjoys life for what it is.
I don't know if there will be much of an audience for Rosetown. Not a whole lot happens and Flora is not a typical child. I am certain this would have been a favored book of mine had I come across it in my youth. But I'm not your average chick. Like Flora, I don't particularly care for change and I prefer the old stuff, be it books or memories. Also, I doubt today's youngsters will get some of the references. In addition to the Wings and a Chair bookstore the music shop is called "Three Part Harmony" and the bakery is titled "Peaceable Buns." Very seventies indeed! But, if you've got a kid who prefers the vintage to the modern, who would rather be reading than texting, this is a winning option. And now I've got "An Old fashioned Love Song" running through my head...
Although there is mention of the Vietnam War and her parent's trial separation, this book is largely without conflict. For the most part, life in small town Indiana is pretty groovy and Flora herself is one who appreciates the little things. She cherishes the people in her life, she loves her home town, loves her routine, enjoys life for what it is.
I don't know if there will be much of an audience for Rosetown. Not a whole lot happens and Flora is not a typical child. I am certain this would have been a favored book of mine had I come across it in my youth. But I'm not your average chick. Like Flora, I don't particularly care for change and I prefer the old stuff, be it books or memories. Also, I doubt today's youngsters will get some of the references. In addition to the Wings and a Chair bookstore the music shop is called "Three Part Harmony" and the bakery is titled "Peaceable Buns." Very seventies indeed! But, if you've got a kid who prefers the vintage to the modern, who would rather be reading than texting, this is a winning option. And now I've got "An Old fashioned Love Song" running through my head...
February 28, 2018
Although it is well written with flawless language, the story felt saccharine and lacked depth. I wasn’t a fan of the omniscient narrator. I think there is an audience for this book, but it wasn’t for me.
June 4, 2025
This book was simply sweet and beautiful. 🤍🤍 The main character reminded me of myself at that age with her bookishness and need to feel safe, and I fell in love with every character and Rosetown itself.
Definitely recommend.
Definitely recommend.
May 2, 2018
Rounded up from 4.5.
A big thank you to Beach Lane Books and Edelweiss for a digital ARC of this middle grade novel.
I really enjoyed this book for so many reasons. There's the setting in Rosetown, Indiana in the 70's. There is no social media. Families do things like go bowling together. "Here Comes the Sun" is on repeat on cassette in the family car. Flora's favorite place to hang out is at Wings and a Chair. Her cat's name is Serenity. She befriends the new kid Yury who's parents are from Ukraine. And then there is this phrase the Flora borrowed from one of her favorite books: Flora loved every wall, floor and window. Highly recommended!
A big thank you to Beach Lane Books and Edelweiss for a digital ARC of this middle grade novel.
I really enjoyed this book for so many reasons. There's the setting in Rosetown, Indiana in the 70's. There is no social media. Families do things like go bowling together. "Here Comes the Sun" is on repeat on cassette in the family car. Flora's favorite place to hang out is at Wings and a Chair. Her cat's name is Serenity. She befriends the new kid Yury who's parents are from Ukraine. And then there is this phrase the Flora borrowed from one of her favorite books: Flora loved every wall, floor and window. Highly recommended!
September 3, 2022
A quiet book about Flora’s life in Rosetown. Her parents are separated, she makes a new friend, and she learns fourth grade and turning ten isn’t intolerable. A quiet book with snapshots of small town America in 1972.
February 25, 2020
3.5 stars
May 30, 2018
I really like Cynthia Rylant.
I also like kids books set in the 50's, 60's and 70's because it's modern, but also a history lesson as it's when their parents and grandparents were kids!
I think this book would be good for kids who just want a nice story, no drama or craziness happening. It's just the story of a little girl going thru her 4th grade year--including her parents being separated, making new friends and having new experiences.
Also, it showed the main character really knowing herself (she doesn't like change, loves words, doesn't like competition, etc.) which I think can be helpful to kids--understanding that how they think and feel can be part of their personality.
Not as fun as something like Ramona Quimby, of course. Not as sad as some other divorced-parents kind of books. Overall it was sweet and quiet.
I also like kids books set in the 50's, 60's and 70's because it's modern, but also a history lesson as it's when their parents and grandparents were kids!
I think this book would be good for kids who just want a nice story, no drama or craziness happening. It's just the story of a little girl going thru her 4th grade year--including her parents being separated, making new friends and having new experiences.
Also, it showed the main character really knowing herself (she doesn't like change, loves words, doesn't like competition, etc.) which I think can be helpful to kids--understanding that how they think and feel can be part of their personality.
Not as fun as something like Ramona Quimby, of course. Not as sad as some other divorced-parents kind of books. Overall it was sweet and quiet.
January 8, 2019
Cynthia Rylant celebrates the daily life of Flora, a young girl who lives in Rosetown, Indiana. The plot is nothing to write home about: she makes friends, her parents are separated, she's getting used to 4th grade, she finds a cat. But that's the point. The magic is all in the telling, as in this description of Christmas vacation: "It was wonderful to have these long, empty winter days that she could fill up however she liked. But Flora also looked forward to going back to school, even in the snow, even in the ice, for she loved the old brick building, its radiators filling the rooms with heat, its aroma in the halls of the bread rolls cooking in the school kitchen, and the reliable presence of pencils and chalk and large round globes. A break was nice, but ordinary life was better." As my colleague Elizabeth put it, this is the kind of book you finish with a sigh of contentment.
July 8, 2018
Such a sweet and a simple story where not much happens but it is well written. I enjoyed its simplicity.
April 23, 2023
Rylant is an incredibly prolific author, and talented. But if I were you, I would stick to the books for early readers, like the "Mr. Putter and Tabby" series or the "Henry and Mudge" series. When this author writes for grade levels above 2nd grade, her ethos, topics and content seem to float away from the needs of my "Checkthebook" patrons. This book, "Rosetown," while sweet, contains detailed Christmas scenes and detailed descriptions of the character's feeling about her parents' separation. THIS book might be excellent for use in a therapeutic setting, to assist a 3rd or 4th grader who cannot verbalize their feelings about their own parents' separation.
March 29, 2020
No doubt Rylant is a beautiful writer, but like Keven Henkes her books are more compelling the fewer words used. This felt like a book where every word and phrase was perfect can completely of no interest to young readers.
May 18, 2018
Flora Smallwood and her parents live in Rosetown, Indiana, home to Flora's favorite used bookstore, Wings and a Chair, her new friend Yury, who has moved from the Ukraine and shares her love for vintage children's books, and her oldest friend, Nessy, who has been by her side since the girls were five years old. Flora loves Rosetown, but she does not love the feelings of uncertainty surrounding the recent death of her dog, her parents' separation, and the start of fourth grade. Thankfully, however, in idyllic Rosetown, nothing terrible seems to last too long.
This gentle novel set in 1972 and 1973 is perfect for sensitive readers who like quieter, more introspective stories with minimal conflict and definite positive resolutions. Though there are problems facing Flora in this book, they are mostly the problems of everyday life as a nine-year-old, and each of these ends up on a hopeful note.
Rosetown itself is much like the little towns that often serve as backdrops to cozy mysteries, and all the little shops and their proprietors really appealed to me. While no small town is ever this perfect in reality, it can often feel that way to the kids who grow up there, and I think Rylant really does a nice job of highlighting Flora's all-encompassing love for her hometown, which makes it appear idyllic in her young eyes.
I was also thrilled to see a reference to the "new" Cricket magazine, to which Flora's teacher suggests she submit a story. Unfortunately, after reading Ms. Yingling's review, I learned that Cricket didn't begin publication until September of 1973, while Flora's teacher shows her a copy already printed in April. This doesn't ruin the story, but it is annoying, especially because the publication date of the first issue is readily available on Wikipedia and because pushing the whole story just one year into the future could have solved the problem!
Because of Flora's love for vintage and used books, this book is particularly appealing to me and my family, and I am probably biased in its favor. Even so, I think there is a lot to like about this book, especially for third and fourth graders who are ready for novels with descriptive language but maybe don't want to read about the concerns of middle schoolers just yet. I have been lamenting the loss of this type of short and sweet middle grade novel in recent years; I hope this book represents the beginning of its return.
This review also appears on my blog, Read-at-Home Mom.
This gentle novel set in 1972 and 1973 is perfect for sensitive readers who like quieter, more introspective stories with minimal conflict and definite positive resolutions. Though there are problems facing Flora in this book, they are mostly the problems of everyday life as a nine-year-old, and each of these ends up on a hopeful note.
Rosetown itself is much like the little towns that often serve as backdrops to cozy mysteries, and all the little shops and their proprietors really appealed to me. While no small town is ever this perfect in reality, it can often feel that way to the kids who grow up there, and I think Rylant really does a nice job of highlighting Flora's all-encompassing love for her hometown, which makes it appear idyllic in her young eyes.
I was also thrilled to see a reference to the "new" Cricket magazine, to which Flora's teacher suggests she submit a story. Unfortunately, after reading Ms. Yingling's review, I learned that Cricket didn't begin publication until September of 1973, while Flora's teacher shows her a copy already printed in April. This doesn't ruin the story, but it is annoying, especially because the publication date of the first issue is readily available on Wikipedia and because pushing the whole story just one year into the future could have solved the problem!
Because of Flora's love for vintage and used books, this book is particularly appealing to me and my family, and I am probably biased in its favor. Even so, I think there is a lot to like about this book, especially for third and fourth graders who are ready for novels with descriptive language but maybe don't want to read about the concerns of middle schoolers just yet. I have been lamenting the loss of this type of short and sweet middle grade novel in recent years; I hope this book represents the beginning of its return.
This review also appears on my blog, Read-at-Home Mom.
March 6, 2021
Cosy little evening read about a little girl who hates change. The book starts with the death of the family pet, her parents separating, and herself changing grades--which apparently means losing all her previous friends, so she must have changed schools too. In my school, everyone in a class was "promoted" (shuffled into the next grade) together. Therefore Flora is very unsettled.
One of the good threads in the book is about her friends finding things they are good at and that interest them. It takes until the end for Flora to find her special talent though (and I'm still looking for mine at age 60, so...) I liked Yuri, though Nessy is really just a background character who deserved more page time.
Mild criticism: While I appreciated a young people's story that wasn't a modern, droning downer of abuse and dysfunctionality, this nostalgic love letter to a small town in the 70s with its "Peaceful Buns" bakery and its "Windy Day Diner" perpetuates the hopeful trope of separated parents getting back together, which in my experience never happens. Wish fulfilment on the author's part perhaps?
Looking online for information about Rylant, only her first husband is mentioned. Her first marriage lasted for only 3 years, long enough to have a child. Apparently she was "married briefly to an English professor" but I was unable to find a name to go with him. Perhaps he was so influential somewhere that he paid her off not to divorce and tell? That's just me being silly, but it is odd.
One of the good threads in the book is about her friends finding things they are good at and that interest them. It takes until the end for Flora to find her special talent though (and I'm still looking for mine at age 60, so...) I liked Yuri, though Nessy is really just a background character who deserved more page time.
Mild criticism: While I appreciated a young people's story that wasn't a modern, droning downer of abuse and dysfunctionality, this nostalgic love letter to a small town in the 70s with its "Peaceful Buns" bakery and its "Windy Day Diner" perpetuates the hopeful trope of separated parents getting back together, which in my experience never happens. Wish fulfilment on the author's part perhaps?
Looking online for information about Rylant, only her first husband is mentioned. Her first marriage lasted for only 3 years, long enough to have a child. Apparently she was "married briefly to an English professor" but I was unable to find a name to go with him. Perhaps he was so influential somewhere that he paid her off not to divorce and tell? That's just me being silly, but it is odd.
January 17, 2020
Rosetown is a sweet story about friendship, companionship and belonging. When I began the book, I was waiting for some sort of conflict, but none eventuated. Nevertheless, it’s still an engaging story about Flora Smallwood who has just started year four at school. Flora’s parents have recently separated and her dog died, so she is feeling unsure of herself. There is a new student at school, Yury, who is also lacking in confidence and Flora soon strikes up a friendship with him.
Together Flora, Yury and another friend Nessy, who is a year younger, explore various activities. These include puppy training, piano playing, scrabble club and their shared love of reading. They discover activities they enjoy, activities that are challenging and some they don’t like. Through the process, they learn more about themselves and each other. They also learn the value of friendship and the importance of belonging.
It is a well written and moving story, though there isn’t much action and I fear some readers may become bored. The book’s ending is almost too good to be true, as Flora’s parents reunite. Together they start a printing shop.
Overall a pleasant read.
Together Flora, Yury and another friend Nessy, who is a year younger, explore various activities. These include puppy training, piano playing, scrabble club and their shared love of reading. They discover activities they enjoy, activities that are challenging and some they don’t like. Through the process, they learn more about themselves and each other. They also learn the value of friendship and the importance of belonging.
It is a well written and moving story, though there isn’t much action and I fear some readers may become bored. The book’s ending is almost too good to be true, as Flora’s parents reunite. Together they start a printing shop.
Overall a pleasant read.
April 19, 2023
This book was so cute, and a very quick and simple read, but interesting enough. I loved the aesthetic of it--old books, small towns, cats & dogs, good friends, stars, and so much more--the prose was amazing, but the dialogue lacked a bit, in my opinion. The story was paced really well, and all in all, I really enjoyed it and recommend it! (I also LOVED how Flora's parents got together in the end - the rep for not encouraging divorce was amazing for once!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2018
This was just disappointing and boring; there's no actual story happening. I'm well aware that everyday life in Indiana is monotonous, but there is no conflict or progression here.
And the language feels completely unnatural and exaggerated, both the narrator's language and the characters' dialogue. No one speaks like this in real life, particularly 4th graders in Indiana.
And the language feels completely unnatural and exaggerated, both the narrator's language and the characters' dialogue. No one speaks like this in real life, particularly 4th graders in Indiana.
April 22, 2021
such a lovely + cute middle grade (or younger) lil adventure!
i loved this one.
classic cynthia rylant, who as a young girl was my absolute favorite author! i still love her, ofc, i just don't read her much anymore :)) i actually even sent her a letter + she responded :o
if you're looking for a darling escape, look no further!! <3
i loved this one.
classic cynthia rylant, who as a young girl was my absolute favorite author! i still love her, ofc, i just don't read her much anymore :)) i actually even sent her a letter + she responded :o
if you're looking for a darling escape, look no further!! <3
August 18, 2021
One of those books where nothing seems to happen, but you can't help happy-sighing at the end of every chapter. A necessary kind of book, especially now. It gives weight to the ordinary struggles of a fourth grader in a small town, honoring quiet, golden exchanges between friends, magical moments with parents and teachers, and little electric glimpses of self-discovery.
September 3, 2018
While this is charming and well-written, it is highly idyllic in setting, voice, and feel.
November 26, 2022
Sweet, quiet story about a little girl's ninth year. Some family dynamics, some new friendships and new pets. But beautifully written, and although not a thriller or adventure; still a page turner.
June 8, 2018
It's 1972 and Flora Smallwood, age 9, has been living in Rosetown, Indiana her whole life. Her mother always said that Indiana had balance and Flora couldn't agree more when she thought about Rosetown. And although Flora loves everything about her hometown, her very favorite place is reading vintage books in the purple velveteen chair in the window of the Wing and a Chair Used Book Shop. Luckily, she can do that three days a week while her mom works, helping shop owner, Miss Meriwether.
Now, however, as fourth grade begins, Flora is feeling rather off balance. She and her parents are still getting over the death of their beloved dog Laurence, the kids returning to school seem to have found a new sense of confidence over the summer that has escaped Flora, and her parents have just told her that they would be separating.
Flora does have a best friend Nessy, short for Vanessa. The girls have been friends since the day they met at the Rosetown Free Library, when Flora was 5 and Nessy was 4, and they often play together on weekends. Now, though, Flora has made another friend. Yury sits behind her in school and come from the Ukraine. All three get along just fine.
Rosetown may be one of the gentlest, slowest moving books I've ever read and I couldn't put it down. Watching Flora's year and the quiet, ordinary events that unfold in her life is reality fiction at its finest, feeling like a breath of fresh air. Ordinary things make up Flora's life (as they do for most of us), like when she and Nessy begin piano lessons at the Four Part Harmony Music School, and Flora is only an adequate piano player, while Nessy seems to be a talented natural. Or deciding what to name the stray cat she and Yury find, finally settling on Serenity. She's a cat who lives up to her name, providing quiet companionship and some balance to Flora. And, after Yury is given a puppy he names Friday, Flora accompanies them to the Good Manners For Good Dogs dog school every Saturday just because she is his friend.
There are not ugly fights between her parents before or after they separate. For and while, Flora finds herself a little at odds to have two rooms of her own in different houses, but her parents work together at providing her with some sense of security, and no matter what, Flora is always sure that they both love her.
Is Flora's view of everything about her life and hometown too unrealistic? I kept waiting for irony to show up, and it just didn't. But this is a story about Flora, not the adults around her and, for all the reader knows, they may be very aware of that is happening in the world outside of Rosetown. After all, Rylant hasn't forgotten life outside Rosetown. There are mentions of Vietnam and the war is lingering in the background, and Flora's parents had actually met because of anti-war protests.
And Rosetown did get me thinking about my world and childhood home at Flora's age - Flatbush in Brooklyn, NY, with wonderful summer trips to Coney Island and Sunset Pool, evening family picnics in Prospect Park and adventures with a best friend I still have. These were the kinds of things that kept me balanced, even though I know that Brooklyn in the 1970s was anything but idyllic, and I can remember sometimes my sense of balance was pulled out from under me.
So, as I read, I asked myself just who is this book for and by the end, I realized it is perfect for young readers who have difficulty dealing with change in their lives. Rosetown shows that with love and support Flora (and all of us) is able find the confidence and certainty that she lacked at the beginning of the book, restoring a now-more-mature sense of balance to her life. Rylant's beautiful lyrical language reads like a textual lullaby, calming and reassuring, stressing the importance of home, a supportive family and friends in life, a message that which will hopefully stay with sensitive readers long after they finish the book.
This book is recommended for readers age 8+
This book was sent to me by the publisher, Beach Lane Books
Now, however, as fourth grade begins, Flora is feeling rather off balance. She and her parents are still getting over the death of their beloved dog Laurence, the kids returning to school seem to have found a new sense of confidence over the summer that has escaped Flora, and her parents have just told her that they would be separating.
Flora does have a best friend Nessy, short for Vanessa. The girls have been friends since the day they met at the Rosetown Free Library, when Flora was 5 and Nessy was 4, and they often play together on weekends. Now, though, Flora has made another friend. Yury sits behind her in school and come from the Ukraine. All three get along just fine.
Rosetown may be one of the gentlest, slowest moving books I've ever read and I couldn't put it down. Watching Flora's year and the quiet, ordinary events that unfold in her life is reality fiction at its finest, feeling like a breath of fresh air. Ordinary things make up Flora's life (as they do for most of us), like when she and Nessy begin piano lessons at the Four Part Harmony Music School, and Flora is only an adequate piano player, while Nessy seems to be a talented natural. Or deciding what to name the stray cat she and Yury find, finally settling on Serenity. She's a cat who lives up to her name, providing quiet companionship and some balance to Flora. And, after Yury is given a puppy he names Friday, Flora accompanies them to the Good Manners For Good Dogs dog school every Saturday just because she is his friend.
There are not ugly fights between her parents before or after they separate. For and while, Flora finds herself a little at odds to have two rooms of her own in different houses, but her parents work together at providing her with some sense of security, and no matter what, Flora is always sure that they both love her.
Is Flora's view of everything about her life and hometown too unrealistic? I kept waiting for irony to show up, and it just didn't. But this is a story about Flora, not the adults around her and, for all the reader knows, they may be very aware of that is happening in the world outside of Rosetown. After all, Rylant hasn't forgotten life outside Rosetown. There are mentions of Vietnam and the war is lingering in the background, and Flora's parents had actually met because of anti-war protests.
And Rosetown did get me thinking about my world and childhood home at Flora's age - Flatbush in Brooklyn, NY, with wonderful summer trips to Coney Island and Sunset Pool, evening family picnics in Prospect Park and adventures with a best friend I still have. These were the kinds of things that kept me balanced, even though I know that Brooklyn in the 1970s was anything but idyllic, and I can remember sometimes my sense of balance was pulled out from under me.
So, as I read, I asked myself just who is this book for and by the end, I realized it is perfect for young readers who have difficulty dealing with change in their lives. Rosetown shows that with love and support Flora (and all of us) is able find the confidence and certainty that she lacked at the beginning of the book, restoring a now-more-mature sense of balance to her life. Rylant's beautiful lyrical language reads like a textual lullaby, calming and reassuring, stressing the importance of home, a supportive family and friends in life, a message that which will hopefully stay with sensitive readers long after they finish the book.
This book is recommended for readers age 8+
This book was sent to me by the publisher, Beach Lane Books
September 15, 2018
Is this a book for a kid?
Catch this bit:"he was, Flora thought, a lost soul. She was not sure why she thought he was lost. "
Is this how a 10 year old in 1972 would think about their father?
Nota Bene: I was 11 in 1972 myself, and I surely didn't muse about my dad that way.
And "with him Flora was beginning to build that precious thing called friendship."
"Precious" is a word I'd use here. What reviewers might call "poetic" is simply mawkish, reminiscent of what a much less gifted writer, trying to impress readers, might do. This short book, much like the author's Newbery Award winning Missing May, seems to be written for adults who THINK this is what kids should be reading, should identify with.
Perhaps there are those Very Special Children who will read this.
But most of them, unless, like "Missing May," it wins the Newbery and is forced on them by teachers, will put this down and turn back to "Dork Diaries" "Dog Boy" and "Diary of a Wimpy Kid."
None of which will be prize winners. But are the sort of books REAL kids REALLY like to read!
As someone who has been delighted to introduce series like Henry and Mudge - The First Book and Brownie & Pearl Step Out to families who LOVE those books I implore Ms Rylant. Please write more of these, and stop writing these meaningful little novelettes!
Catch this bit:"he was, Flora thought, a lost soul. She was not sure why she thought he was lost. "
Is this how a 10 year old in 1972 would think about their father?
Nota Bene: I was 11 in 1972 myself, and I surely didn't muse about my dad that way.
And "with him Flora was beginning to build that precious thing called friendship."
"Precious" is a word I'd use here. What reviewers might call "poetic" is simply mawkish, reminiscent of what a much less gifted writer, trying to impress readers, might do. This short book, much like the author's Newbery Award winning Missing May, seems to be written for adults who THINK this is what kids should be reading, should identify with.
Perhaps there are those Very Special Children who will read this.
But most of them, unless, like "Missing May," it wins the Newbery and is forced on them by teachers, will put this down and turn back to "Dork Diaries" "Dog Boy" and "Diary of a Wimpy Kid."
None of which will be prize winners. But are the sort of books REAL kids REALLY like to read!
As someone who has been delighted to introduce series like Henry and Mudge - The First Book and Brownie & Pearl Step Out to families who LOVE those books I implore Ms Rylant. Please write more of these, and stop writing these meaningful little novelettes!
January 23, 2018
Flora lives in Rosetown, Indiana, taking turns living with each of her parents who are taking a break. Her mother works three afternoons a week in Wings and a Chair Used Books and Flora enjoys sitting in the purple velveteen chair by the window and reading "extra vintage" books for young readers. Despite the recent loss of Laurence, the beloved family dog (which occurred right before her parents' trial separation) and the difficulties of fourth grade, Flora thrives in the love her parents have for, a few good friends. the "simple harmonies" and a recent discovery of her talent for writing.
(I received pre-publication access thanks to Edelweiss.)
(I received pre-publication access thanks to Edelweiss.)
November 27, 2018
Book #99 Read in 2018
Rosetown by Cynthia Rylant
Flora loves her small town. Three afternoons a week, she meets her mother after school in the used book store where her mother works. Her father is a photographer. She has good friends. Her parents have separated but both make sure she has the best of both worlds. This is a touching read, of a small town that readers will want to live in. This book would be a great read for upper elementary and middle school readers, ideally.
Rosetown by Cynthia Rylant
Flora loves her small town. Three afternoons a week, she meets her mother after school in the used book store where her mother works. Her father is a photographer. She has good friends. Her parents have separated but both make sure she has the best of both worlds. This is a touching read, of a small town that readers will want to live in. This book would be a great read for upper elementary and middle school readers, ideally.
June 19, 2020
Flora reminds me a lot of me as a child, except that she's an only child. She likes books, her favorite bookshop, her friends, her family, her town. She's adjusting to fourth grade and her parents' separation, quietly dealing with what comes.
I am a Cynthia Rylant fan, especially her "tween" books. This is another poignant book, a little less entertaining to an adult, but perfect for me as an 8 or 9-year-old trying to find my place in the world.
I am a Cynthia Rylant fan, especially her "tween" books. This is another poignant book, a little less entertaining to an adult, but perfect for me as an 8 or 9-year-old trying to find my place in the world.
October 31, 2018
To finish a book and feel a bright yellow happiness inside is a rare treasure.
Such a sweet and simple book. A peek into the "mildly bad" moments of a year in an innocent and kind young girl's life.
Revealed to me how much I, as Brené Brown says, "wait for the other shoe to fall."
Such a sweet and simple book. A peek into the "mildly bad" moments of a year in an innocent and kind young girl's life.
Revealed to me how much I, as Brené Brown says, "wait for the other shoe to fall."
July 26, 2021
I have loved and followed Rylant's writing for years and years. When I first read Rosetown it just didn't work for me. I decided to read it again, since Rylant is worth it.
Sadly, it seemed bland and vague to me after the second reading. Perhaps kids really can connect with it though.
Sadly, it seemed bland and vague to me after the second reading. Perhaps kids really can connect with it though.
December 16, 2021
I just love this author and everything she writes!♡ This was one I chose to read aloud to my son for his weekly reading log. It's an awesome book to read aloud to kids, it has beautiful imagery and lines I would sometimes read twice just because I enjoyed them. The story follows Flora, a girl who lives in a small town in Indiana in 1972. Her parents have separated, but are still very loving and intent on making sure her world is peaceful...they sound a bit like flower children from the 60s. The story follows Flora through the seasons as her life changes, with her friends Yury and Nessy and her cat Serenity and her loving parents. Absolutely gorgeous book. Highly recommend ♡♡♡♡
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