From The Sound of Music to Story Time: Children's Books by Julie Andrews

Dumpy the Dumptruck

When Julie Andrews' grandson was young, she began writing children's books with her daughter. Among these read-aloud bedtime stories is a series about a dump truck from Merryhill Farm. Preschoolers through second graders (ages 2-7) who love trucks and animals will cheer Charlie and his grandfather on as they race to fix Dumpy before he gets sent to the junkyard. Themes of loyalty, respect for the elderly and group effort underlie this simple picture book.

The Very Fairy Princess Takes the Stage

A New York Times best seller, this charming story is based on a simple truth; many little girls believe that they're princesses. Even though Geraldine is disappointed that she doesn't get the part of the Crystal Princess in her ballet recital, she decides it's best to be herself. Gerry believes that no matter who you are, you can still be a princess if you just let your inner sparkle out. Recommended for 'plain Janes,' scabby-kneed princesses and kids aged 4-8 who like to laugh, this second illustrated book in The Very Fairy Princess series is sure to expand your child's ideas about what makes someone 'regal.'

The Great American Mousical

Who could be better to write about the life of a stage performer than Julie Andrews? Your 3rd-6th grader will enjoy this national best seller that features a troupe of mice who wish to perform one last time before their Broadway theater meets the wrecking ball. Andrews' daughter, Emma Walton Hamilton, collaborated on this story, and Tony Walton's illustrations are scattered throughout chapters with titles that mimic a playbill.

The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles

Before Julie Andrews teamed up with her daughter to write children's books, she wrote chapter books for middle schoolers (ages 9-12). The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles is a fantasy that will ignite your child's imagination. Follow the adventures of the Potter children as they accompany Professor Savant into a fanciful world where magical creatures have gone to escape those who doubt their existence. Consider taking turns reading this book to each other or using it as a springboard to discuss the power of belief with your child.

Mandy

Julie Andrews' first solo book, Mandy, has been warming hearts since it was first published in 1971. If you loved reading this book as a child, why not share it with your middle schooler?

Like most young children, 10-year-old Mandy dreams of having her own space that she doesn't have to share with 30 other orphans. Not your typical orphan-overcomes-obstacles tale, Mandy transforms an abandoned cottage into a place she can call her own in her own right.