Katy
Mary Evelyn Notgrass
Katy Porter likes to climb trees, play with her sister, and ride bikes with her brother. The Porters are a close family. They are brought even closer through a family vacation, a surprise in the middle of the night, and an important decision that will affect them all.
Katy is enjoying her summer break from school when her parents tell her that they are thinking about homeschooling in the fall. Katy likes being an average girl and is afraid that being homeschooled will make her too different from everyone else.
Katy’s parents will have to decide soon. This summer could bring a big change for the Porter family. Whatever they decide, it has already brought a big change in Katy’s heart, for she is learning that being different might be okay after all.
Katy is a pure story of strong character, simple faith, and a loving family.
Mary Evelyn Notgrass is a homeschool graduate who lives and works with her family in Gainesboro, Tennessee. She is the director of a dramatic society for homeschooled children and has written several historical dramas. Katy is based on memories of her childhood.
All ages. Trade paperback. 192 pages. ISBN 1-933410-86-8
What Readers Are Saying
"Katy is a safe and happy story set in a world of wholesome, fun and warm family relationships. Written in the classic style of the much-loved Milly Molly Mandy and Little House on the Prairie stories, Mary Evelyn Notgrass’ story is unencumbered by an author’s need to pander to popular culture.
"Young readers will relate to Katy’s childhood experiences, like playing make-believe with siblings and friends, the disappointment of not earning a swimming patch and the simple pleasures of a visit to grandparents. Good role modeling is abundant, yet natural and never delivered with a lecturing tone. For instance, Katy restrains her first impulses in speech and action, and she checks with Mom before doing something for which she does not have specific permission. Siblings love and encourage each other, Dad prays and plays ball, Mom comforts and teaches Katy to sew, and parents ask for and grant forgiveness following a minor argument.
"Wound through the story is a pending decision whether to homeschool. Katy’s parents give ear to the children's feelings while reserving to themselves the final decision.
"Mary Evelyn Notgrass’ simple black and white illustrations complement the storyline’s unaffected innocence. Katy makes a great addition to a family’s bookshelf."
Derri Smith, Sweet Home Press
www.sweethomepress.com