studiousgal

As a young girl, I read this book and its sequels "What Katy Did at School" and "What Katy Did Next." This is an entertaining little movie that is chiefly of interest for its cast. Many of the actors have gone on to bigger roles. Incidentally, while the IMDb gives the date as "2004" the end credits state it is 1999. It's fun to see Allison Pill, the sophisticated Zelda Fitzgerald of "Midnight in Paris" in this young role as tomboy Katy. And yes, that's a pint-sized Michael Cera in an early appearance as little "Dorry."

The movie simplifies the book somewhat (one fewer Carr sibling; Katy's story is telescoped in time, so that it all seems to happen in one year). The rural setting is lovely and Canadian viewers will enjoy spotting some of the actual locations. The story is sombre in its middle part, perhaps too depressing for young viewers. It will, perhaps, mainly appeal to adults who remember Katy from their childhood.