Sean Callahan

The big ideas of this book are about working hard to make wishes come true, and not judging people based on what they look like. I like this book for two reasons. First, I like how the plot, even though it is fantasy, seems like it could really happen. For instance, Liam, the leprechaun, does not magically grant Shannon’s wishes. Rather, he shows her that she can attain what she wants through hard work. When she wishes for gold, he gets Shannon to practice her step dancing at a new level by having her teach him the moves. As a result, Shannon’s wish is granted as she wins the gold medal at her Irish step dance competition. I also like how the theme of this book reflects on humans’ tendency to stereotype. Shannon has a hard time believing that Liam is a leprechaun because he is so tall. She also feels that she cannot beat her competitors in the dance contest because their costumes are so much nicer than hers. This is a twist on typical stereotyping that is known as stereotype threat.… (más)

Shannon loves stepdancing, but she doesn't have the fancy wigs, new shoes, or expensive costumes like the other girls. All the same, she keeps practicing for the Saint Patrick's Day stepdance contest. Unfortunately, when the heel of her shoe snaps off, her chances of winning are ruined...or are they? Even though things look hopeless, Shannon closes her eyes and remembers what her dad once told her about how to get a leprechaun to appear and grant a wish. When she opens her eyes again, Liam, the world's tallest leprechaun, is standing there.

Shannon is skeptical. After all Liam doesn't look like what she expected. However, she makes a wish, and he grants it...sort of. The same thing happens the next day and the day after that. With all three wishes used up, Shannon shows up at the contest ready to dance her best. After all the practice, will Shannon win the leprechaun's pot of gold at the end of the rainbow? Liam knows the answer, but Shannon must find out for herself in this charming Saint Patrick's Day tale.

The Bottom Line: Sean Callahan's tale of a little girl and her three wishes is perfect for Saint Patrick's Day. The main character learns that things may not always be what they seem, but hard work, tradition, and lots of practice can make a lot of difference. Kathleen Kemly's pastels perfectly compliment this heartwarming tale. Highly recommended for kids interested in Irish-American traditions, stepdancing, and Saint Patrick's Day lore.

This review also appears at the Mini Book Bytes Book Review Blog.… (más)