TINA AND THE LATCHKEY CHILD

by Jeanna Oterdahl ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 1, 1962

The everyday adventures of Tina Lindequist, who tripped through the pages of April Adventure (p. 6-J 6), take on new warmth and credibility in this story of her friendship with Annika Lennberg, an equally winning Swedish heroine. A ""latchkey child"" since her father's death, Annika admires the little girl in the park who goes home each afternoon to a mother who opens the door, a real papa and a family of brothers. Yet more than envy forms the basis of this friendship. Transformed into imaginary characters, romping in the grass, playing store, both children eagerly look forward to their afternoons in the park. When Annika visits Tina for the first time, she is wide-eyed at the variety of ""things"" in Tina's house -- and without realizing the power of her own impulses, takes an especially attractive ornament. Her deep sense of guilt and sorrow are relieved by the combined understanding and firmness of her own mother and Mrs. Lindequist. Yet this is no one-sided relationship. Tina is just as delighted with her visit to Annika's apartment with its charming decor and entertaining neighbors. Written within the boundaries of childhood experiences, (a rare achievement in itself), these episodes truly reflect without sentimentality, the problems and joys involved in this unique friendship. For ""latchkey"" and ""non-latchkey"" readers alike.

Pub Date: Feb. 1, 1962

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Harcourt, Brace & World

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 1962

Categories: FICTION