Meet Miss Fancy

K-Gr 2--A heartwarming story set in the early 1900's about a young boy who desperately want to befriend an elephant. Latham's story is loosely based on a true circus elephant that retired to live in a park in Birmingham, Alabama. Frank, a black boy who draws elephants, talks about elephants, and dreams of meeting an elephant, might just get his wish. Frank and his classmates learn that a circus elephant needs a new home and collect pennies to help the city of Birmingham buy Miss Fancy. Frank is overcome with excitement as he awaits the day Miss Fancy would arrive. Crowds of people come out to greet the elephant as she is led from the train station to her enclosure in the local park. Frank gets his first glance of Miss Fancy but discovers he is unable to get a closer view because the park is for whites only. Frank is heartbroken, but he discovers a tree that overlooks the elephant enclosure and visits every day. Frank continues to ask if he can go into the park, his mother and minster think they have an idea. They ask the city for a permit to have a church picnic in the park. Unfortunately, the picnic is called off due to the prospect of trouble. Meanwhile, Miss Fancy has been having a bit of fun herself by escaping from her habitat. And one morning Miss Fancy arrives on Frank's doorstep. Overcome with joy, Frank leads her back to the park and with the love and care he shows he is finally allowed to visit Miss Fancy properly. VERDICT The story of Miss Fancy is a joy to read. For younger readers, it not only explores the adventures of Frank and Miss Fancy, but also touches on the race issues in the South during the 1900's. This would be a fine addition to any children's library.--Erin Olsen, The Brearley School, NY