I Love Saturday

by Patricia Reilly Giff

On Saturday morning Katie, who lives in Greenwich Village, plays checkers, helps paint the hallway, receives a sugar cookie from Mrs. Zelinsky, and keeps a secret.

Genres: Picture Books

320 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1989

About the author

Patricia Reilly Giff was an American author and educator whose warm, emotionally resonant books made her a beloved figure in children's literature. After spending roughly two decades as a teacher, she turned to writing and brought a deep understanding of young readers to stories that balanced humor, resilience, and emotional truth. Educated at Marymount Manhattan College, St. John's University, and Hofstra University, she drew on both her classroom experience and literary instincts to create memorable fiction for children and middle-grade readers. She became especially well known for the popular Polk Street School series, which captured the everyday dramas of school life with charm and empathy. Beyond those books, she wrote acclaimed novels such as Lily's Crossing, Nory Ryan's Song, Pictures of Hollis Woods, Eleven, and Genevieve's War, often exploring themes of belonging, family, hardship, and courage. Her work earned wide recognition, including Newbery Honors, an ALA Best Book for Young Adults designation, and a Christopher Award. Giff also influenced younger writers through her workshops and teaching spirit. Throughout her career, she remained a compassionate literary voice whose stories spoke directly to children's fears, hopes, and imaginations.

Reviews

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Saturday is Katie Cobb's favorite day of the week. Every Saturday she wakes up and does her daily list of events, until one Saturday everything changes. Mrs. Zelinsky's granddaughter is in town and has already done everything Katie had on her list. Katie is not very happy, but by the end of the book she realizes how much she has in common with Jessica Jeanne and they become good friends. This was always one on my favorite books as a child.

[Kristen Dutkiewicz · Rating 4 out of 5]

The main character in this adorable story has a problem: Saturday is her day, and someone new is in town and is stealing her thunder!

I love how this story shows we can work together rather than argue and stay apart. Very cute read.