Book details
The Diary of Melanie Martin: or How I Survived Matt the Brat, Michelangelo, and the Leaning Tower of Pizza (Melanie Martin Novels)
Description
Dear Diary,You will never in a million years guess where we're going.Nope. Guess again. Never mind. I'll tell you. Italy! We're going to ITALY! In Europe!! Across the ocean!!! I even have a passport. It's really cool, except I'm squinting my eyes in the photo so I look like a dork. At least that's what my brother said. I call him Matt the brat. You would too. Trust me. . . . Go ahead. It's not snooping, because you're invited to dig right into the private diary of Melanie Martin, age 10. Melanie is off to Italy on a family vacation with her art-obsessed mom, her grumpy dad, and her annoyingly cute 6-year-old brother. But Italy isn't exactly everything Melanie expects it to be. As she discovers Michelangelo, gelato, and the joy of penning poetry, she also discovers how much her crazy family really means to her. Maybe she won't trade them in after all.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
8-10
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
160 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Cultural Exploration: The book offers a delightful journey through Italy, providing insights into its rich culture, art, and history, as seen through the eyes of a young traveler. Readers can learn about famous landmarks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the works of Michelangelo, making it an educational read for children and young adults.
- Relatable Family Dynamics: Melanie's interactions with her younger brother Matt, who she refers to as 'Matt the Brat,' are filled with humor and the realities of sibling relationships. This makes the story relatable and engaging for readers who have siblings or who appreciate family-centric narratives.
- Personal Growth and Adventure: As Melanie navigates the challenges of traveling abroad and dealing with family, she grows as a character. Readers can find inspiration in her resilience and adaptability, making the book a good example of personal development and the value of new experiences.
- Entertaining Writing Style: Carol Weston's writing is known for being witty and accessible. The diary format of the book allows for an intimate glimpse into Melanie's thoughts and feelings, making for an entertaining and fast-paced read that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.