When I was younger... I think I read the book after I had seen the movie. I think seeing the movie first really altered my perception of the characters. While I loved the movie as a kid, and I loved book, I actually disliked the book this time around.
My perception of Harriet has changed a lot. I used to think she was curious and fun loving, this time around was very different.
Now...
Harriet's voice sounds a lot older than she is, which I give her credit for. But is her snarky attitude that is pretty poor. She claims to want to learn everything, but she is unwilling to put herself in someone else's shoes. She thinks she has all the answers and tends to put other people down. Because of this, she has some major realizations and has to grow up fast when everyone turns against her. Though, Harriet's story is still kind of fun and interesting.
Why I loved this book...
This book made me want to journal. While I didn't really want to be a spy, I wanted to people watch and observe. I wanted to be the fly on the wall when I was in public places, overhearing private conversations when I could. But not breaking and entering, or anything to that extreme.
This book had a huge impact on my life. I find it interesting that Harriet's voice no longer resonates with me. Some of the things she says are a little too young. And yes, it is a kid's book so maybe that's why I find her a little stuck up now.
For anyone that wants to read this, I do highly recommend it for younger readers. And I still love the movie, which I watched after the book.
