School Library Journal Review
K-Gr 4A story told in witty rhyme, about bookish Elizabeth Brown, who ``learned to read quite early/And at an incredible rate.'' The story follows the young bibliophile from infancy to old age, as she takes her greatest pleasures in life from her literary treats. As an elderly woman, she donates her house and all of her treasures to the town for a library, and moves in with a friend. Framed watercolors give the book an old-fashioned, scrapbooklike appearance, in keeping with the details and dress of a time gone by. Books topple over beds and line her halls and walls, taking over every inch of space in her spacious home. Elizabeth is never seen without a tome, whether vacuuming or exercising. Small black-ink line drawings decorate the verses below and often add an additional touch of humor. This is a funny, heartwarming story about a quirky woman with a not-so-peculiar obsession. Cheers for Elizabeth Brown, a true patron of the arts.Trev Jones, School Library Journal (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Publisher's Weekly Review
In this "blithe yet affectionate portrait of a woman whose life centers on reading," said PW, "Small's airy illustrations charm with historical touches and soothing pastel hues." All ages. (Sept.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved