She's English author & illustrator, Lauren Child, known for the popular tv series for children, Charlie and Lola, out of which comes this picture book, I REALLY, REALLY NEED ACTUAL ICE SKATES. In it, Lola changes from one, I-want-that, to the next I-want-this. According to older brother Charlie, it seems like Lola is never satisfied with the status quo, i.e., no renting ice skates; but, instead, prefers THE best, brand new ice skates, because, then, she can skate like a pro. Charlie reminds her of several previous "things" she had wanted, things that had quickly become bottom-of-the-closet items; and, she reminds Charlie that this time will be different. But is it? In a surprise ending, Lola wins again.

Lauren Child writes the Charlie and Lola series with real kid situations, real kid conversations, and illustrates 23 pages with believable, likeable characters. Her MUM should be very proud. ( )

I know, we have to be patient with children. I don't know if I could ever be as patient with Lola as her brother Charlie is, though. He's the true hero. Lola is also lucky to have such good friends. I'm a fan of this series of books.

I watched a couple of episodes of the tv show on you-tube though and was not nearly so impressed. I advise you not to bother. But I am curious if anyone has been a fan of the tv show and then tried to read the books - if so, what did you think of each version of the stories? ( )