Jacob's Best Sisters

Krystyna Higgins is the former book review editor for the Toronto-based
Catholic New Times.

Award-winning author Teddy Jam (Night Cars, Dr. Kiss Says Yes) in this
latest book puts a contemporary spin on the classic
toys-that-come-to-life theme. Having entered a contest sponsored by the
makers of his favorite breakfast cereal, Jacob wins a miniature pioneer
log cabin complete with furnishings and four tiny dolls. At bedtime the
little inhabitants come to life, and very bossy and demanding they are
indeed. Jacob assumes the role of frazzled caregiver/big brother as he
feeds, bathes, dresses, and entertains his minuscule guests—all the
while placating his own mother, who keeps asking, “What are you doing
up there?” In the morning, of course, the dolls are all safely asleep
in their beds. Was it all a dream? Jacob isn’t sure; but he already
has designs on the next contest prize.

The ingredients that make up this story are instantly appealing: the
contest win, the toys that become “real,” the engaging personalities
of Jacob and his little charges, the humor, the open-ended “what could
happen next” conclusion.

A further delight is Joanne Fitzgerald’s warm pastel illustrations.
Mostly they are straight-forward depictions of the text, with much charm
deriving from the contrast between “big” Jacob and the tiny dolls.
On the penultimate page, however, a deft touch renders Jacob doll-size,
as hinted by the bedtime story he invents for the dolls.

This book is a joy in every respect. Highly recommended.