Summary

Chloe is not good at much. But boy can she craft! But can Chloe craft a birthday present for her best friend, Emma? Should she even try?

Review

I originally borrowed this book from the library because Heather Ross illustrated it. Being a dabbler in all things “home economics” myself, I am drawn to Heather Ross’ various fabric lines and was compelled to check out the book. The storyline is cute enough, Chloe likes to make things and is very good enough. But is she good enough at making things to make a birthday present for her best friend? This, of course, is the question at the heart of many (if not all) “crafters.” Can I possibly give something I made to someone else and call it a gift? For the record, Chloe has more fortitude than I. And that’s good.

That said, I found the writing to be overly simplistic, young, and boring.  I understand it’s a picture a book and, as such, is targeted to 4 year olds. But it has been my experience that 4 year olds have no problem making gifts of whatever in any particular moment. Rather, the older girls (and boys, too) – say 7,8,9 and above – who are suddenly inflicted with the “homemade is not good enough” syndrome. I was hoping for Chloe to be “cool” for them (do those girls even say “cool” anymore?)

A cute enough, book, though. And I can’t get enough of the illustrations (see? I told you I liked Heather Ross). Additionally, Chloe’s website – linked at the back of the book – has some fun crafty things to make and do.

What You Need to Know

• Role Models/Authority Figures – Chloe makes things, and is unselfish.
• Violence – None.
• Sexual Content – None.
• Language – None.
• Consumerism – None. Chloe makes her stuff instead of buying it.
• Drinking/Smoking/Drugs – None.
• Religion – None.
• Other – there is an internet link to www.craftychloe.com in the back of the book
• Awards