A review by manwithanagenda
The Bad Times of Irma Baumlein by Trina Schart Hyman, Carol Ryrie Brink

funny lighthearted reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

Irma Baumlein just blurted it out. A lie. A little lie that kept growing bigger with every moment. She tells a girl in her class that she owns the biggest doll in the world because she feels she doesn't have anything to offer in friendship. To her dismay the claim is taken up and soon its the talk of the school, which has an upcoming open house to raise money. 

This was a very simple but very fun story about consequences that scratches at deeper levels of loneliness and insecurities in young children. The reader instantly relataes to Irma as she digs herself deeper into trouble. Love this and the illustrations.