Monday 24 February 2014

The Two and Only Kelly Twins

The Two and Only Kelly Twins by Johanna Hurwitz, illustrated by Tuesday Mourning (Walker Books)
HC RRP 19.95
ISBN 9780763656027
Reviewed by Anastasia Gonis

Arlene and Ilene are seven year old identical twins. The only difference is their birthday. Arlene was born just before midnight and Ilene eight minutes later. They dress alike, and no one except their parents can tell the difference. They sometimes play tricks and pretend to be one another, and love the attention they get at school.

When a set of triplets arrives with the new school year, the twins are no longer the centre of attention. When Arlene gets sick and has her appendix out, the two girls realize that they can be alike but different. Even doing things apart and having your own friends can be fun.

The theme of identity and freedom of choice is woven into an entertaining chapter book of cheeky deception, sister fights about which pet to choose and Halloween trick and treat. The excellent black and white illustrations by Tuesday Mourning (great name!) beautifully complement  and visually stimulate the text.

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