Book details
Crossing the Tracks
Description
At fifteen, Iris is a hobo of sortsno home, no family, no plan. Her mother died when she was six, and her selfish father hires her out as a companion to a country doctors elderly mother. Iris, stuck in the middle of 1920s rural Missouri, discovers that "hobo" is short for "homeward bound," and cultivates an eccentric cast of folks into family, creating the home she never had. But when she learns that a neighboring tenant farmer may have had more than his hands on his pregnant daughter, Iris must intervene to save the girl and her unborn baby. The many facets of what makes a family are illuminated with warmth and charm in this beautifully crafted tale.
Age
11-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
272 pages
Why to read
- Insight into Historical Context: 'Crossing the Tracks' is set in the 1920s, a period of significant social and cultural change in America. Reading this book provides a glimpse into the era's challenges and the impact of historical events on individuals' lives, particularly those of young women and marginalized communities.
- Character Development: The protagonist, Iris Baldwin, undergoes substantial personal growth throughout the story. Readers can learn from her resilience, adaptability, and the way she confronts the prejudices and obstacles of her time, making it an inspiring tale of empowerment and self-discovery.
- Exploration of Social Themes: Barbara Stuber's novel addresses important themes such as class division, racial discrimination, and the search for identity. It encourages readers to think critically about these issues and their relevance in today's society, fostering empathy and understanding.
- Engaging Narrative: Stuber's writing style is engaging and evocative, with rich descriptions and well-developed characters that draw readers into the story. The book's compelling narrative makes it a page-turner, ensuring that readers are invested in Iris's journey from beginning to end.