Mary Poppins, by P. L. Travers

(Paperback, 208 pages, first published in 1934)

This classic novel continues to enchant readers of all ages! A day with Mary Poppins is a day of magic and make-believe come to life.

From the moment Mary Poppins arrives at Number Seventeen Cherry-Tree Lane, everyday life at the Banks house is forever changed.

It all starts when Mary Poppins is blown by the east wind onto the doorstep of the Banks house. She becomes a most unusual nanny to Jane, Michael, and the twins.

Who else but Mary Poppins can slide up banisters, pull an entire armchair out of an empty carpetbag, and make a dose of medicine taste like delicious lime-juice cordial?

As a read-aloud or an independent read, Mary Poppins is a winner.

Storyglory Considerations: Unlike her character in the film adaptation, Mary Poppins is portrayed as strict, vain, and frequently sharp—she “never wastes time being nice”—which may come across as harsh to modern readers. 

Recommended Age: 5-10