Diary of a Real Payne Book 1: True Story by Annie Tipton (Barbour Publishing) a Schoolhouse Crew Review -

I love looking up from reading a just-for-me book and seeing my children also with their noses in books. It is a joy that they have found books to be pleasurable companions. One of my daughters has not always found joy in reading. She has finally found a book she wants to read – Diary of a Real Payne Book 1: True Story by Annie Tipton from Barbour Publishing.

You have probably read of my struggles in teaching our eldest daughter to read. I spent so much time working with her, her next two younger sisters practically taught themselves. I have tried to interest my girls in reading various series based upon their ages, interests, etc. The older two have had no problem settling into a series. Our third daughter, however, just hasn’t found any that really interest her. I suggest something, she reads it. I ask if she wants to read the next one – “no, that’s okay.”

Well, I think we’ve found a winner for her with Diary of a Real Payne Book 1: True Story. She has not hardly put this down (except when she has had school work or chores *grin*). I think the reason she is enjoying this so much is because of the similarities between herself and EJ Payne, the main character.

EJ – short for Emma Jean is a 10 year old fourth grader. She has freckles, a June birthday and likes spelling. Just like my daughter! Well, she is 9 1/2, but she is in 4th grade. EJ is also a dreamer and this is what sparks her interesting adventures – or at least imagined adventures and their real consequences.

Just as the beginning of the book begins with a “Dear Diary” entry, so does each chapter. There are 15 chapters, each 6-10 pages (from what I could tell). The diary entry pages have some doodling and a relaxed font — giving the feel of actually peeking into EJ’s diary. At 192 pages this is a nice quick read for those reading well at the intended age of 8-12 years old.

My daughter’s favorite chapter is “Just A Little Off the Top”. EJ gets a haircut – she has referred to her hair as a “tragedy” so this event is not met with enthusiasm. In the end, she is delighted with the results and has a new friend in Ashley, the hair stylist. Of course, a chapter isn’t complete without some sort of daydream. This one affects her younger brother Isaac, leaving him with a bald spot.

I haven’t had a real opportunity to read this book. From what I’ve skimmed, the family are Christians. There is not an emphasis on this, it is just a part of their daily lives. I appreciate authentic examples such as this – especially for my children to read and encounter on their own. It should be part of us, not something that is “put on” when others might be watching.

I am so thrilled to have found a series (We are hoping there will be more since this is called Book 1) that fits this daughter so well. Diary of a Real Payne Book 1: True Story ($5.99) is available at booksellers everywhere. Check out more of the reviews by clicking the graphic below.

Thank you Barbour Publishing!