I have really mixed feelings about Pippi.

On one hand, she seems sweet and innocent and earnest (albeit socially clueless). She says silly things and is full of surprises. Her whimsical spirit is delightfully fresh, and she seems to approach life with the optimism and generosity of the healthiest of children.

On the other hand, Pippi makes up all sorts of lies and is quite frankly a living terror. Although I don’t think she intends to be downright naughty and a nuance, she disobeys at school, defies the police and has them chasing her around a rooftop, makes huge reckless messes, and is entirely socially disruptive (e.g., eating/destroying all the food at a tea party). She also makes up tall tale stories and insists they’re true.

Also, there is a bit of ghost talk with ghosts in the attic and Pippi spooks her friends with a ghost poem.

I think if kids are *not* struggling with completely defying adults and not struggling with lying, then I could read this with them and enjoy laughing at the silliness and craziness of it all. Pippi’s way if looking at things can be quite entertaining (e.g. starting to go to school because she’s insisting on getting vacation like everyone else). It would be best to read it together so you can point out how she’s being naughty even if not intentional.

However if a child struggles with authority or with truth speaking, definitely leave this one off your shelf.