The Apartment House on Poppy Hill

Written by Nina LaCour, Illustrated by Sonia Albert

Ella is a nine-year-old, know-it-all little girl with two moms. She lives in a Victorian style apartment house in San Fransisco. She has appointed herself as the designated tour guide. When a new couple moves in she sets out to show them everything there is to know about the quirks of the building and its eccentric residents.

This story is told in three acts. I enjoyed the final one the most, when she meets the mysterious couple that lives on the top floor in apartment A. I loved all the different people that lived in the building and how they were Ella’s extended family network. She loved them all for who they are.

This is an introductory book in anticipation of more to come in a series. It would appeal to readers in search of a light-hearted, short read.

Reviewed by Kristen Hunt, Librarian, Whittier Elementary School
Review shared in January 2024
Rating: ★★★★✩ (4 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 3-5

The Apartment House on Poppy Hill
Written by Nina LaCour, Illustrated by Sonia Albert
Chronicle Books
125 pages
Release Date: November 7, 2023
ISBN: 9781797213736
An advanced reader’s copy was provided by the publisher.

Tags:

2023 Chapter Books, 2023 Children's Fiction, Apartments Fiction, California Fiction, City Life Fiction, Community Fiction, Humorous Fiction, Kristen Hunt, Mystery Fiction, Nina LaCour, Realistic Fiction, San Francisco Fiction, Sonia Albert