Jennifer, Hecate, Macbeth, William McKinley, and Me, Elizabeth by E.L. Konigsburg

Race is not a factor in Elizabeth’s and Jennifer’s friendship. That the friendship between Jennifer and Elizabeth is interracial is mentioned once in the book. When out of sight of grown-ups, Cynthia is mean and “two -faced”. She is pretty and neat and smart.” Elizabeth wastes no time discovering Cynthia is NOT perfect.

Elizabeth’s mother encourages a friendship with Cynthia, a girl of the same age who lives in their apartment building. Pre-teen friendships are important developmental stepping stones. she reads Macbeth she never wears jeans or shorts she never says “please” or “thank you” and she says she is a witch. Fifth grade is a lonely place until she meets Jennifer. Jennifer finds herself in a new town and a new school. Elizabeth’s experiences with her new friend, Jennifer, grow more and more intriguing from one chapter to the next. However, the above mentioned cigarette pack costume may be explained by this date. Even though it was published in 1967, it’s relevancy remains intact. Konigsburg’s Newbery Award winning books for ages eight through twelve. (“Why would a fifth grader wear a pack of cigarettes costume made from a large cardboard box?”) Perhaps she will question a classmate’s choice of Halloween costume.

I hope to be able to talk to her about the things she finds interesting. It was enjoyable revisiting the story and I’m quite certain my granddaughter will like it. I remember reading Jennifer, Hecate, Macbeth, William MicKinley and me, Elizabeth years ago as a teacher and decided to have a quick reread, today, before giving a copy to my granddaughter who just entered fourth grade.

Jennifer, Hecate, Macbeth, William McKinley, and Me, Elizabeth by E.L. Konigsburg