Book details
A Pickpocket's Tale
Description
A perfect Common Core tie-in, A Pickpocket's Tale includes nonfiction backmatter with a historical map of New York City in 1730, a glossary of period vocabulary words, and an explanatory note titled "How Much of This Story Is True?"Molly Abraham is a kinchin mort: a ten-year-old thief trying not to starve on the London streets. But everything changes for Molly when she is sentenced to be transported to the American colonies. She becomes an indentured servant to a kind Jewish family in New York City, and Molly has it good. So why is it that all she wants to do is go back to London? Karen Schwabach uses richly detailed descriptions and authentic period language to bring history to life. She skillfully explores the subjects of Jewish culture in Colonial America and London street culture in this gritty yet heartwarming debut novel.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
113 pages
Why to read
- Historical Insight: 'A Pickpocket's Tale' offers readers a vivid glimpse into the life of an orphan in 18th century London, providing a rich historical context that can both educate and entertain.
- Engaging Storyline: The novel's plot is filled with adventure, suspense, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged from start to finish, making it a compelling read for both young adults and adults.
- Character Development: The protagonist, Molly, is a well-crafted character whose journey from a pickpocket to a new life in America allows for exploration of themes such as identity, redemption, and resilience.
- Cultural Understanding: By exploring the social dynamics and the harsh realities of the lower classes in historical London, the book encourages readers to develop empathy and a deeper understanding of different cultures and time periods.