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Rating: 
Summary: Get this story!
Review: I bought this book for my daughter who is an avid reader and she really liked it. She finished it in only a couple nights of before-bedtime reading because she was so interested in the book. I then read it for myself and discovered why she enjoyed it so much. Not too deeply buried in a very readable story about Stephanie's desire to join her gradeschool newspaper are real lessons about actually writing a story, the value of persistence and hard work, and a couple of insights into sibling and child-parent relationships that every parent would want their child to think about. I think I had a knowing smirk on my face many times while reading this book! The concepts and how they are presented are completely appropriate for the 8-12 age group. The story is positive overall, but does not omit mention of the struggles encountered, the choices to be made, and the sacrifices necessary to really excel at a favorite activity. Stephanie is ultimately a great success, but the truly important lesson is in her initial failure and the hard work she must do to become successful. Incorporating a real-life role model as part of the book is a nice touch that makes the message more than 'just a story.' The general format seems well-suited to a series covering different professions or other pursuits, and I'll be sure to give these to my daughter (and son -- no reason to leave all the fun to girls!) as they become available.
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