Book of the month - Chrysanthemum, written and Illustrated by Kevin Henkes

“A rose by any other name…” Review by Meredith Clark

This book is about a tiny mouse named Chrysanthemum. She was told growing up that her name was absolutely perfect.

The first day of school the teacher, Mrs. Chud, took roll call. When she said Chrysanthemum’s name- the children giggled. The rest of the day she was made fun of for her name. Victoria said, “I’m named after my grandmother and you’re named after a flower.” Chrysanthemum did not think her name was absolutely perfect anymore.

Chrysanthemum went home to be greeted by her parent’s smiles. She told them about her name and how it was -truly dreadful. That night Chrysanthemum dreamed a lovely dream that her name was Jane.

The next day Chrysanthemum walked as slowly as she could trying to procrastinate and wanting to avoid her school mates. By the end of the day Victoria commented to Chrysanthemum that she still couldn’t believe her name. Chrysanthemum thought the same- miserably.