Step into the vibrant world of Mallory McDonald, where every day brings a new adventure for a spunky young girl with a knack for humor and heart! The Mallory McDonald series, crafted by American author Laurie Friedman, is a delightful collection of 28 children’s chapter books that follow the spirited Mallory as she navigates the ups and downs of growing up. With her love for cheeseburgers and her trusty cat, Cheeseburger, by her side, Mallory’s relatable tales of friendship, family, and self-discovery have charmed young readers for over a decade.
Perfect for ages 7–10, this series blends humor, realistic fiction, and a touch of heartwarming chaos, making it a staple in children’s literature. From moving to a new town to tackling school challenges, Mallory’s journey is a rollercoaster of emotions that resonates with kids and parents alike.
How Mallory McDonald Began
Laurie Friedman’s inspiration for Mallory McDonald sprang from a deeply personal place—her daughter’s devastation at age six when their family faced a move. This spark led to the 2004 debut, Mallory on the Move, published by Darby Creek, a division of Lerner Publishing Group. Friedman, a native Arkansan with a passion for storytelling, drew from her own childhood memories and her children’s experiences to craft Mallory’s world. Illustrated by Tamara Schmitz, the series quickly gained traction for its authentic voice and relatable characters, growing into a beloved 28-book saga by 2017.
The Heart of Mallory McDonald
The Mallory McDonald series shines through its engaging stories and universal themes. In Mallory on the Move, eight-and-a-half-year-old Mallory grapples with leaving her best friend, Mary Ann, when her family relocates to Wish Pond Road. Her new life brings challenges—like a mean neighbor girl—but also unexpected friendships with Joey, who teaches her to skateboard. Back to School, Mallory (2004) dives into her struggles at a new school, made trickier when her mom becomes the music teacher. Step Fourth, Mallory! (2008) captures her fourth-grade woes, from breaking rules to feeling left out when her best friend crushes on the same boy. Finally, Mallory Makes a Difference (2017) wraps the series with Mallory’s mission to create positive change, showcasing her growth.
Each book weaves themes of friendship, resilience, and embracing change, set in a relatable suburban world. Friedman’s light, humorous style, paired with Mallory’s joke-telling and journal entries in some titles, keeps readers hooked. Whether she’s dealing with sibling rivalry with her brother Max or caring for Cheeseburger, Mallory’s adventures feel like a friend’s diary—funny, heartfelt, and real.
Why Mallory McDonald Resonates
The Mallory McDonald series has left a lasting mark on children’s literature by offering young readers a mirror for their own experiences. Its focus on everyday challenges—like moving, starting school, or navigating friendships—makes it a comforting guide for kids facing change. Fans praise Mallory’s relatable personality, with reviews on Goodreads highlighting her likability and realistic reactions. The series’ awards, including Children’s Choice designations, underscore its appeal. Educators love it too, with downloadable teacher’s guides on the series’ website enhancing classroom engagement.
Even years after its finale, Mallory’s stories continue to inspire confidence and creativity in young readers, proving that a determined girl with a big heart can conquer anything.
- Publication Years: 2004–2017
- Total Books: 28
- Target Age: 7–10
- Awards: International Reading Association/Children’s Book Council Children’s Choice
- Illustrator: Tamara Schmitz
About Mallory McDonald
Ready to join Mallory’s adventure? Grab Mallory on the Move and dive into a world of laughter, friendship, and growing up with heart!