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Post by DianeB on Sept 3, 2006 16:59:26 GMT -5
Just noticed this book on the list. I thought it was great. Drita, an escapee from Kosovo, is now living in the US. She doesn't speak English, her father is away at work, and her mother is sinking into an irreversible depression. Maxi is still suffering from the loss of her mom three years earlier and is "acting out". When Maxi is assigned a project on Kosovo, because of her teasing Drita, she and Drita have a better understanding of each other. They help each other cope with their problems, and they grow stronger together.
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Tess
Full Member
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Post by Tess on Oct 10, 2006 13:42:47 GMT -5
I can't decide whether I consider this title award-worthy or not. I genuinely liked the story. I appreciate that children under the age of 14 could read it. Both girls had strong voices. I'm torn about how easily Drita's mother seemed to become well and how Maxi managed to keep what happened to her mother a secret from her friends and classmates. The Newbery criteria states that "Committee members must consider excellence of presentation for a child audience." Are my issues with the story ones that are more for an adult audience?
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Post by DiannaB on Dec 11, 2006 14:24:23 GMT -5
I liked Drita, but I read it a few months ago and forgot to comment, so now, I'm having a hard time rememebering it. The growth of Drita during the assignment seemed a little contrived. She 'grew-up' a little while she learned about others. It just didnt' have the depth to it I expect from a possible award-winner.
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