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Sunday, July 25, 2010

Fancy Nancy: Ooh La La! Written by Jane O'Connor and illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser. Harper, 2010. $13.99 ages 3 and up


"The Ooh La La! Beauty Spa is conveniently located in our backyard. Isn't it amazing how I transformed my clubhouse? (Transform is fancy for change.)"

Fancy Nancy Clancy is always up for a challenge and a new experience. When Dad invites Mom out for a birthday dinner and a movie, Nancy cannot resist the temptation to 'fancy her mother up'. She invites her to visit the Ooh La La! Spa that has suddenly appeared in the backyard. Her mother, always game for Nancy's ministrations, accepts the invitation and is treated like royalty.

There is a hand massage, a banana and honey facial with all the accoutrements, a foot soak, music for relaxation and cucumber eye pads to take away the puffiness. There is even a parfait treat to refresh while the work is being done.

The piece de resistance is the coiffure (that's fancy for hairdo)and Mom is plied with mousse, braids, ribbons and entertainment while the hair dries. When the braids come out, Nancy is frantic. She puts in a call to her friend, Mrs. DeVine who used to be a 'beauty care consultant'. Soon, all is well, the parents have bid their daughters good night and it's Nancy's turn for some pampering!

The many small details are what make the Fancy Nancy books such fun! There are lists, recipes, entertainments, and instructions. Robin Glasser ensures that there is plenty of 'fancy' on every page and much that is not mentioned in the delightful text. It's a winning combination and I anticipate each new adventure with great delight.

A collection of Fancy Nancy books would be perfect for your favorite, frivolous, fantastic, fancy little one!

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