I discovered today that Punky Brewster has been re-imagined for 21st century elementary school readers as a graphic novel. And even though I totally don’t fall into that age group, I loved the advanced copy. In fact, I know some baby girls who will be getting this book from me in a few years.
Broken down into seven sections (which kind of remind me of the 5 part story arcs the television series used to use) the story takes introduces us to Punky as a “street urchin,” who discovers a long-lost cousin named Henry. If you watched the original series, you’ll have to accept this as one of the “re-imagined” parts but no modern-day kid would care or notice the difference.
We follow Punky (and her dog Brandon) in her quest to be placed in foster-care and/or adopted by Henry. I know that this adoption was an integral part of the television plotline, but I did feel like it was a bit drawn out in the graphic novel, especially for young readers. It was still a fun read though, and the design of the book is just as adorable as Punky herself. I think would be very appealing to anyone who likes Pippi Longstocking or Amelia Bedelia (or, like me, loves both).
The full title of this graphic novel is Punky Brewster: Volume 1, so here’s hoping that volume 2 includes the infamous very special refrigerator episode, “Cherie Lifesaver.” I’d like to see that re-imagined, and also on my book shelf for multiple re-reads.
The Very Special Blog 
Amelia Bedelai rules. Wikepedia lists some of my favorites: “Amelia’s list went like this…and listed is what she did.
Put out the lights – Took all the lightbulbs out of their sockets and hung them on a clothesline.
Dust the furniture – Literally threw dust on the furniture with dusting powder (in her house they “undust” furniture)
Change the towels in the green bathroom – Used scissors to change the look of the towels.
Draw the drapes when the sun comes in – Drew a picture of the drapes.
Measure two cups of rice – Poured rice in two coffee cups, stacked them, measured them with a ruler, then dumped the rice back in the box.
Trim the fat on the steak – Put lace trimmings around the steak.
Dress the chicken – Put clothes on the chicken.”
And then there is my favorite, in one of her books – title escapes me – When coached to steal home base in a ball game she does just that!
I would LOVE to see the Very Special Blog note the Very Special Lesson Amelia Bedelia brings to us.
Hahah well I may have to dig cup a copy or two and give them another read.