Anni's Diary of France

This breezy account of a family's trip to France owes its success as much to young narrator Anni's enthusiastic diary entries as to Axworthy's captivating illustrations. A pastiche of watercolor panoramas, spot art, photographs and stamps, the busy pages treat readers to an informative yet informal view of France. After spending several days in Paris, Anni and her parents travel by car through western and southern France, making stops in Normandy, Brittany, the Loire Valley, Bordeaux, Provence, the Cote d'Azur and the Cevennes. Along the way, they have a good deal of contact with the French people; at Loches, they stay with a local family and Anni spends a day at school with the daughter. The amiable diarist makes note of the many French words she learns--as well as some intriguing historical nuggets (the Louvre was built as a fort and later used as a palace before becoming a museum; and the chateau at Chenonceau was designed by women). A most bon voyage. Ages 6-11. (Feb.)