About This Book
Reach for this book when your child shows a spark of creative interest or is navigating the bittersweet transitions of moving and making new friends. Charlotte in London follows a young girl's journey from a quiet artist colony in France to the bustling, fog-filled streets of Victorian London. Through her charming journal entries, children explore the intersection of history and art as Charlotte meets legends like John Singer Sargent and Henry James. This story beautifully balances the excitement of travel with the deeper emotional work of saying goodbye and adapting to new environments. It is perfect for elementary aged children, particularly those who enjoy journaling or sketching their own observations. Beyond the story, the inclusion of real artworks and historical notes makes it an enriching experience that nurtures both the heart and the mind.
What Parents Should Know
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In 1895, young American Charlotte leaves the artist colony of Giverny to spend a season in London with her family. Through her illustrated journal, she chronicles her encounters with famous artists, her visits to historic landmarks like the Tower of London, and her observations of British culture. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book is entirely secular and safe for young readers. It touches briefly on the sadness of leaving friends behind in France, but the resolution is joyful and filled with new discoveries. EMOTIONAL ARC: The narrative begins with a gentle sense of longing for what was left behind, but quickly builds into a crescendo of curiosity and wonder. It remains steady, warm, and intellectually stimulating throughout. IDEAL READER: An 8 to 10 year old girl who loves to draw, keep a diary, or who has a fascination with the past. It is particularly suited for a child who may be moving to a new city and needs to see the adventure in change. PARENT TRIGGER: A parent might notice their child feeling bored with their surroundings or expressing anxiety about an upcoming trip or relocation. PARENT PREP: The book can be read cold, though parents may want to brush up on Impressionist art to answer the inevitable questions about the paintings featured in the back. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger children will enjoy the story of Charlotte's daily adventures and the beautiful illustrations. Older children will appreciate the historical context, the real life figures, and the sophisticated way art is integrated into the story. DIFFERENTIATOR: This book stands out by seamlessly blending historical fiction with art history education. It uses a child's voice to make high culture accessible and inviting rather than stuffy.
