Friday, December 18, 2009

Book Review on Behind The Bedroom Wall By Laura E. Williams


Published in 1996, "Behind The Bedroom Wall" was written by Laura E. Williams. This story takes place in Germany in 1942. Thirteen-year-old Korrina Rehme is doing everything she can to help Hitler get rid of their little "Jewish problem". She joined the "Jungmadel," a Nazi youth group, and even carried a small black notebook in which to make a note of anyone she caught assisting a Jew. That was before she moved her wardrobe, looking for a mouse she'd been hearing, and discovered a hole in her wall in which two Jews were hiding. Korinna's parents were helping the enemy (the Jews)! How "un-German!" If she did not turn them in she would be un-German herself! Should she turn in her own parents? When Korinna begins to grow fond of the Jews, she feels like a traitor. And when Korinna's best friend turns Korinna's family in, she doesn't know who to trust. Ultimately, Korinna's family is forced to leave Germany, traveling to an unknown destination. I enjoy this book a great deal and I hope you do too. If you enjoy this book you may enjoy other books by Laura E. Williams. I would think this book best for any girls (or boys) who are interested in the plight of the Jews during World War II, with no age limits!

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Book Review on Eight Cousins by: Louisa May Alcott


"Eight Cousins", by Louisa May Alcott, first published in 1875, is definitely a classic. This warming tale about Rose Campbell goes straight to your heart. Rose, an orphan used to living in boarding schools, has no choice but to stay with one of her seven aunts or her guardian, Uncle Alec. They all want her, but who will she pick? She decides to stay with her Uncle Alec for the first year. While living with her Uncle Alec, Rose is always learning new things such as how to bake bread or make button holes. Of course, Annabelle Bliss, Rose's "friend", a prim, proper, somewhat spoiled child, teaches her a few things too, like how to act. She even convinces Rose to let her pierce her ears! Uncle Alec can be a little hard on Rose too. Imagine, eating healthful things like oatmeal and wearing sensible dresses, instead of the fancy ones she is used to. How awful! And can she really go to China without leaving town? At the end of the year, who will she choose to live with? In my opinion this a must have book for any girl's (or boy's) bookshelf. This is a great read for ages nine to ninety-nine!