Charlotte in London

School Library Journal

Gr 3-5

This latest selection in Charlotte's exciting adventures takes the fictional child from Giverny in 1895 where her father is learning to paint "en plein air" to London. As in the earlier titles, Knight blends cameo appearances of historical figures into the fictional narrative. For example, Charlotte's mother tries to enlist artist John Singer Sargent to paint her portrait and is seated at a dinner party next to Mr. Henry James. Charlotte and her friend Lizzy visit many monumental landmarks, from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace. The text highlights both French and British culture; French phrases and historical facts are smoothly integrated within the text. Diary entries, watercolor paintings, and museum reproductions combine to create a detailed background. Featured artists' biographical information provides added depth to the period. There's much to explore in the mixed-media and watercolor art. Art aficionados and fans of Charlotte in Paris (2003) and Charlotte in Giverny (2000, both Chronicle) will enjoy these vivid British travels.-Meg Smith, Cumberland County Public Library, Fayetteville, NC

Kirkus Reviews

It's 1895, and Charlotte, formerly of Boston, is leaving Giverny, France, where her father studies painting with Monsieur Monet, for London, where her mother hopes to model for John Singer Sargent. Presented in a fictional diary format similar to earlier books in the series (Charlotte in Giverny, 2000, etc.), this charming tale is likewise accompanied by Sweet's appealing watercolors and inventive collage that incorporates reproductions of artwork and period photographs. When it becomes clear that Sargent has traveled on, the family, hoping their paths will intersect, continues its tour as well and enters a social whirlwind of artists and members of le beau monde, from Henry James to James Whistler to hostess Mrs. Cyprian Williams. Charlotte's witty voice, peppered with French phrases, resonates brightly as she relates her tour of England from the Tower of London to the Cotswold countryside and includes interesting tidbits of historical detail for readers to savor. A terrific choice for readers with an interest in art history, this is a strong, appealing story on its own. (artwork credits, biographical notes, author's note) (Fiction. 8-12)