Book details
Child of the Mountains
Description
"Unfolds in pitch-perfect regional dialect. . .. For fans of Ruth White's and Kerry Madden's Appalachian-inspired fiction."--Kirkus ReviewsIt's about keeping the faith.Growing up poor in 1953 in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia doesn't bother Lydia Hawkins. She treasures her tight-knit family. There's her loving mama, now widowed; her whip-smart younger brother, BJ, who has cystic fibrosis; and wise old Gran. But everything falls apart after Gran and BJ die and mama is jailed unjustly. Suddenly Lydia has lost all those dearest to her. Moving to a coal camp to live with her uncle William and aunt Ethel Mae only makes Lydia feel more alone. She is ridiculed at her new school for her outgrown homemade clothes and the way she talks, and for what the kids believe her mama did. And to make matters worse, she discovers that her uncle has been keeping a family secretabout her.If only Lydia, with her resilient spirit and determination, could find a way to clear her mother's name. . . .From the Hardcover edition.
Age
9-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
272 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'Child of the Mountains' provides an authentic portrayal of life in the Appalachian region during the 1950s, offering readers a glimpse into the unique culture, dialect, and traditions of the area.
- Emotional Depth: Marilyn Sue Shank crafts a moving narrative that explores complex themes such as poverty, prejudice, and resilience through the eyes of a young protagonist, which can resonate with readers on an emotional level.
- Character Development: The book features strong character development, particularly of the main character, Lydia Hawkins, who demonstrates growth, courage, and determination in the face of adversity, making it an inspiring read for both young and adult audiences.
- Educational Value: 'Child of the Mountains' touches on important historical and social issues, such as the justice system and the stigma surrounding mental illness, providing educational value and discussion opportunities for classrooms and book clubs.