Book details
Bread and Roses, Too
Description
2013 Laura Ingalls Wilder AwardRosa's mother is singing again, for the first time since Papa died in an accident in the mills. But instead of filling their cramped tenement apartment with Italian lullabies, Mamma is out on the streets singing union songs, and Rosa is terrified that her mother and older sister, Anna, are endangering their lives by marching against the corrupt mill owners. After all, didn't Miss Finch tell the class that the strikers are nothing but rabble-rousers—an uneducated, violent mob? Suppose Mamma and Anna are jailed or, worse, killed? What will happen to Rosa and little Ricci? When Rosa is sent to Vermont with other children to live with strangers until the strike is over, she fears she will never see her family again. Then, on the train, a boy begs her to pretend that he is her brother. Alone and far from home, she agrees to protect him . . . even though she suspects that he is hiding some terrible secret. From a beloved, award-winning author, here is a moving story based on real events surrounding an infamous 1912 strike.
Age
9-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
288 pages
Why to read
- Historical Insight: 'Bread and Roses, Too' offers readers a vivid portrayal of the 1912 Lawrence Textile Strike, providing an educational glimpse into a significant event in American labor history and the struggles of immigrant workers.
- Emotional Depth: Katherine Paterson is known for her ability to create emotionally resonant stories. This book delivers a touching narrative that explores themes of hardship, courage, and the resilience of the human spirit, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate character-driven tales.
- Literary Merit: As a work by Katherine Paterson, a two-time winner of the Newbery Medal, 'Bread and Roses, Too' is recognized for its quality writing and storytelling. Readers who value well-crafted literature will find this book to be a worthwhile addition to their collection.
- Social Relevance: The issues addressed in the book, such as labor rights, economic inequality, and social justice, remain relevant today. Reading 'Bread and Roses, Too' can spark important conversations about how these historical struggles have shaped current societal dynamics and the ongoing fight for workers' rights.