My friend Clare suggested I read Wolf Hollow by Lauren Volk.

Did I mention Clare is in fifth grade?

I love talking to this bright, interesting girl about our shared passions – Project Runway and reading. We both thought it was scary the first time we read about the panther in Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House in the Big Woods.

Fox Hollow is one of my favorite books this year – it packs a punch. It’s the story of Annabelle, a young girl, in 1943. Annabelle is dealing with a horrible bully at school, prejudices that come from the war and an odd, but kind and reclusive neighbor, Toby.

This book is for ages 8 to 12 but I think any adult would love it.

Clare picks out great books.

Clare rode her bike over to my house to talk about the book. Here’s our conversation:

What was your favorite part about Fox Hollow?
I just liked the whole theme of the book. The specific parts I don’t want to give away. It was so beautifully written. I just really loved it.

I really liked Annabelle – she was 12 and I’m 11 and I could relate to her. I just really like her – she’s so powerful. She’s so cool.

Even though the story was set in World War II, why could you relate to Annabelle, the main character?
She was good at keeping secrets and got down to business and didn’t play around like her other friends. I can relate to her being aware of what’s going around her.

She helped a lot of people – and I like to help people.

I can also relate to Annabelle because many people misunderstand people right now and also, people are very unjust.

Wolf Hollow is a John Newbery Medal winner.

Can you tell me about your mother/daughter book club?
We started three years ago but it barely feels like a year. We usually choose a book that’s based on girl power and being strong. We like reading about girls facing adversity who are strong. After we read the book, we have a meeting and a discussion. The moms talk and the girls act out the book in the living room.

What are some other books you’ve read?
Pippi Longstocking, I am Malala and I love Harry Potter.

My mom usually reads us books before bed – we’re reading Hatchet about a boy surviving the wilderness. He’s successful! Brian’s Winter is his (Gary Paulsen) second book. It’s an awesome book.

More about Clare
She is a competitive swimmer for Cincinnati Marlins, she’s in choir, plays the clarinet and likes art and acting. She has a pet tarantula named Rose.

Thank you, Clare!

This post is dedicated to the memory of author Amy Krouse Rosenthal. Thank you for giving us Little Pea (and more).