McClintock, Barbara. 2002. DAHLIA. New York: Francis Foster Books. ISBN 0-374-31678-3DAHLIA is an intricately illustrated picture storybook about Charlotte, a young girl who is not afraid to get dirty. When Charlotte receives a doll from her aunt, she names her Dahlia and spends the day showing her the way they do things.
In this simple and believable plot, Charlotte is unwilling to change the way she plays simply because her new doll, Dahlia, has a fancy dress and hairdo. Dahlia’s constitution is challenged by mudpies, leaf boats, wagon races and tree climbing; all the while, the reader cheers her on. This story of a child’s individualism transcends its 19th century, country home setting. McClintock’s use of voice is true to that of a young child. When some boys tease Charlotte about having a doll she retorts, “She’s braver than all of you.” Despite the fact that Bruno is a teddy bear, his voice is no less audible. When asked to share his wagon, Charlotte notes, “Bruno didn’t mind at all.” Though Charlotte tells the reader how her friends feel, it is also evident through the illustrations. Muted tones and painterly techniques create the detailed world in which the story takes place. From bird nests to plants to a pet snake in Charlotte’s room, the illustrations provide information beyond the textual descriptions. Indeed, without the illustrations, readers would likely never know Bruno is a teddy bear. Finally, the pictures provide both Bruno and Dahlia with facial expressions to match the text—concern about a new situation, elation upon winning a race, and grumpiness at being brushed. The warm yet straightforward story may leave the reader wondering if Ms. McClintock, like Charlotte, is a tomboy at heart. Recommended for readers ages 6-10 years in small groups or one-on-one (and tomboys like my daughter!).
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