Read, Write, Repeat.

Young readers first met Nellie Sue, and all her glittery glory, in Rebecca Janni’s debut picture book Every Cowgirl Needs a Horse. (Dutton Children’s Books, 2010).

The spunky cowgirl proved to be so popular that’s she’s back for another adventure in Every Cowgirl Needs Dancing Boots (Dutton Children’s Books, 2011).

In this tale, Nellie Sue has mastered riding Beauty, her two-wheeled horse, and is looking for a friend to help her break in her new dancing boots. But the only girl her age in the neighborhood seems more interested in ballet than barn dances. But Nellie Sue doesn’t give up until she and Anna find out just what they have in common.

The story features lots of down-home language, vibrant artwork by illustrator Lynne Avril and a happy ending.

As Kirkus Reviews says, “The glittery stars and hearts on the cover may lure readers into Nellie Sue’s pink cowgirl world, but it’s her hopeful, unbroken spirit that’ll win ‘em over.”

Now, let’s see what today’s guest reviewer, Sonia, has to say. Sonia is, after all, a bit of an expert on cowgirl boots as she owns two pair. You’ll notice she’s wearing one of each in the photo. Sonia also relates to Nellie Sue because she just mastered riding her two-wheeler and because she tries to ride real horses whenever she possibly can.

Take it away, Sonia!

Our reviewer: Sonia

Age: 9

I like:Playing DS fashion stylist games, getting new stuffed animals, watching TV and playing with my friends.

This book was about: A cowgirl named Nellie Sue who wants to play with friends, but the only people her age in her neighborhood are the glitter girls, and Nellie Sue doesn’t think they’ll like the same things she does. So Nellie Sue gets an idea from her dog, Ginger, and throws a barn dance and invites the girls. First, she doesn’t think anyone will come, but they do. And Nellie Sue gets to dance in her dancing boots. And, so do the glitter girls. Nellie shares pink lemonade and even her boots with her new friends.

The best part was when: Anna and Nellie Sue became friends.

I smiled when: Nellie Sue gave her boots to Anna.

I was worried when: I thought the glitter girls might not come to her party.

My favorite line or phrase in the book was: “I’d rather be a cowgirl,” said Anna.

My favorite picture was: When Nellie Sue is looking over at the glitter girls and one of the girls spots her and thinks she is spying.

This book taught me: You should be nice to everyone, because they might turn into a really good friend.

Three words that best describe this book: “Dancing.” “Boots.” “Glitter.”

Other kids reading this book should watch for: Lots and lots of pink and bigger words like “Trip. Slip. Slide.”

You should read this book: If you like cowgirls or glitter.

Thanks, Sonia!

If you’d like to learn more about Rebecca Janni, you can visit her website or read this interview on Cynsations.

If you’d like to learn more about Lynne Avril, visit her website or read this quick interview.

And, if you’re not familiar with Rebecca and Lynne’s first collaborative effort, read Brooke’s review of Every Cowgirl Needs a Horse.