SteigFEST 11: Brave Irene

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Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1986, 1st ed.
Ages: 5 and up
Themes: humorous stories, dressmaking, blizzards
Opening: Mrs. Bobbin, the dressmaker. was tired and had a bad headache, but she still managed to sew the last stitches in the gown she was making. “It’s the most beautiful dress in the whole world!” said her daughter, Irene. “The duchess will love it.” “It is nice,” her mother admitted. “But, dumpling, it’s for tonight’s ball, and I don’t have the strength to bring it. I feel sick.”
Summary: (from my library catalog) Plucky Irene, a dressmaker’s daughter, braves a fierce snowstorm to deliver a new gown to the duchess in time for the ball.

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I like this book because: is it Irene’s perseverance? Her mother’s? A show of female strength? Yeah, probably all of the above. Whatever the reason, this one is a particular favorite. I don’t want to overthink it – just love it! I appreciate the continual spreads of Irene in the snow, because I have been through enough storms (of one kind or another) and can identify with Irene. I bet kids would like it too!

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Resources/activities: make a dress – a simple A-line will do for a parent-child project. See some easy examples/instructions HERE; discuss how to handle getting caught in a snowstorm during a weather unit – tips HERE, Lesson plans HERE

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BIspotToday’s tidbit:  

 

13 thoughts on “SteigFEST 11: Brave Irene”

  1. This is my all time favorite Steig!
    Admittedly, I first picked it up as a gift for my sister in law, who is named Irene. But the story was so endearing and the message so perfect – I just fell in book love!
    So glad to read your feature on Irene. 🙂

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