National Adult Literacy Database

May 6, 1996

This week's story originated from the imagination of Donna VanEsch from the province of Ontario. In this story, Donna demonstrates a talent for recreating the unique world of the child through fiction.

My Favourite Doll

by Donna VanEsch

Hi, my name is Marie, I am 9 years old. I live in Ottawa, Ont.

Once upon a time, when I was 6 years old, I went out to visit a China Doll store with Ma. My Ma wanted to buy herself a flowered China plate.

I saw the beautiful China dolls. I picked a China doll named Elizabeth. She had long light brown hair and brown eyes. She was so beautiful and she looked just like me. I walked up to Ma and asked "Ma, can you buy me a China doll I found? She is so beautiful with long light brown hair and brown eyes. I picked her out. Her name is Elizabeth, so please Ma, can you buy me this China doll?" Ma said, "No."

When we got home, I went to my room and cried. I was so upset about not getting my favourite China doll.

The next day, my Ma made me a cake for my birthday. I was still sad. I talked to myself as I looked in the mirror and said, "I want my China doll named Elizabeth."

Then my Ma called, "Marie, come outside, your friends are waiting to have your birthday party." I walked downstairs and went outside, but I still felt very unhappy. I sat with my grandmother, but I am feeling very sad. Everyone sang "Happy Birthday" to me. I am still sad.

My grandmother gave me a birthday present. I said, "thank you grandma" with my voice low and I am so sad. I opened the bow very slowly and then I saw the box. I was so surprised. I said, "Oh! grandma, it is so beautiful, thank you, I love you grandma."

I gave grandma a big hug and a kiss. I went upstairs and put my doll on my dresser. I knelt on the floor and prayed to God. I said, "Dear God, I thank you for letting me have my China doll. Now, I am 7 years old and I will care for her. Thank you God. Amen." I kissed the China doll Elizabeth Good Night and I went to bed. I closed my eyes and smiled.

[Used with permission, from the "KeyNotes S.O.A.L. Network Newsletter", April/May 1995, p. 4, published by the Southwestern Ontario Adult Literacy Network]