Reading this title with my daughter brought home the deeply personal ways that racial segregation affected the lives of everyone in the southern U.S. Seen through the eyes of an innocent child, the impact seems to be felt on a more intimate level than if it were otherwise portrayed. However, the book does not only consist of the serious social issues of the day. We also find the day to day delights of childhood: tea parties, sleepovers, birthdays, library visits, play houses, shopping trips for new clothes and ice cream woven throughout the tale. These everyday childhood events provide the backdrop and setting for the struggles of the era to play out against.

After reading this series debut I would say that Davis has accomplished what she has set out to achieve. My 5 year old daughter remains enchanted with the character of Sydney Clair, and often takes this book along with her on long car trips. Thankfully there are more Sydney Clair titles on the way. Each Girl 'n Grace will have a series of books bearing her name, along with an 18” doll wearing her signature outfit. My daughter cannot read yet, but the clear, bright book design and illustrations have captivated her. She remembers Sydney Clair and her story as she turns the pages.

For more information on the Girls 'n Grace Collection, visit the official website at GirlsnGrace.com. There you can learn more about the series, order the dolls, play interactive games, answer fun quizzes, and more.