Schroeder, Lisa. My Secret Guide to Paris. New York: Scholastic, 2015. 978-0-545-70808-1. $16.99. 224p. Gr. 5-7.

Nora loves everything about Paris, from the dizzying heights of the Eiffel Tower, to the masterpieces of the Louvre. The only thing Nora doesn’t like about Paris is that she has never actually been there. Nora’s beloved Grandma Sylvia is about to change that. She promises Nora the trip of a lifetime to the City of Lights as a very special birthday present. Sadly, Nora’s grandmother unexpectedly passes away before they get to take their trip. Nora is deeply saddened about losing her grandmother, but just as sad that her opportunity to visit Paris has slipped through her fingers. She convinces her mother to take the trip with her. When they get to Paris they uncover a treasure map of surprises, leading them around the city, uncovering a side of her grandmother she—and her mother—never knew.  THOUGHTS: If you never wanted to visit Paris, you will change your mind after reading this book. The author takes the reader on a whirlwind tour of the city to places the typical French tourist many not think to visit.

Realistic Fiction     Jane Farrell, Dallastown Area Intermediate

French Lesson: “Delightful” is Delicieux. My Secret Guide to Paris is simply that…delightful! Schroeder does such a wonderful job describing French landmarks in this book; the reader feels as if she is actually walking the streets of Paris with Nora.