Book Review – TURTLE IN PARADISE
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Holm, Jennifer. 2010. TURTLE IN PARADISE. New York, NY: Random House. ISBN 978-0375836886
2. PLOT SUMMARY
During the Great Depression in 1935, a young girl named Turtle is sent by her mother to live with her Aunt Minnie in the Florida Keys. When she arrives, she discovers a different world. Not only will she be living with a number of her cousins (Kermit, Buddy, Beans), there are a number of other adjustments to be made. These range from getting used to mosquitoes, hurricanes, crying babies, scorpions, and the stifling heat. Over time, the girl begins to fit in, learning about her new home and trying to achieve membership in the “Diaper Gang”. Eventually, Turtle is surprised to meet her grandmother and struggles to establish a relationship with her. In her home, she also finds a treasure map which leads to a great adventure and buried pirate gold. When her mom comes to get Turtle, she learns a hard lesson about life. She soon discovers, however, that a loving family can be the greatest treasure of all.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This historical fiction novel works well on many levels. The characters are well-rounded and interesting, with various flaws, both physical and mental. The story is constantly name dropping comics, Hollywood actors, and popular products of the time which will introduce young children to them, even if they don’t recognize them. Readers will learn quite a bit about popular foods of Key West, along with general information about the area such as local slang and why the kids don’t wear shoes. The story makes the setting feel alive by providing many details. Hazards that kids might not have thought of such as hurricanes, scorpions, and grumpy grandmothers are also touched on, giving the story an authentic feel. While the story offers plenty of authentic details of the 1930’s, it also features many universal themes, such as unique family arrangements, and kids trying to get away with things and being naughty. In addition to a fascinating Author’s Note with pictures, there is also a short resource list complete with relevant web sites.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
Reviewed in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “This richly detailed novel was inspired by Holm's great-grandmother's stories. Readers who enjoy melodic, humorous tales of the past won't want to miss it.”
Reviewed in BOOKLIST: “Holm uses family stories as the basis for this tale, part romp, part steely-eyed look at the Depression era. Reminiscent of Addie in the movie Paper Moon, Turtle is just the right mixture of knowingness and hope; the plot is a hilarious blend of family dramas seasoned with a dollop of adventure. The many references to 1930s entertainments (Terry and the Pirates, Shirley Temple) will mostly go over kids' heads, but they'll get how much comics and movies meant to a population desperate for smiles.”
A Newbery Honor Book
5. CONNECTIONS
More Newbery winners by Jennifer Holm:
Holm, Jennifer. PENNY FROM HEAVEN. ISBN 978-1439518823
Holm, Jennifer. OUR ONLY MAY AMELIA. ISBN 978-0613359955
This book would complement the understanding of any lesson on the 1930’s by highlighting elements of society during that time period.
No comments:
Post a Comment