Book details
Looking for Me: ...in This Great Big Family
Description
One of twelve siblings growing up in Depression-era Baltimore, Edith isn't quite sure of who she is. Between working at her father's diner, taking care of her younger siblings, and living in the shadow of her more mature sisters, she feels lost in a sea of siblings. When a kind teacher encourages Edith to be a teacher herself one day, Edith sees prospects for a future all her own. Full of joy, pain, humor, and sadness, this novel in verse is an enduring portrait of one family's pursuit of the American dream.
Age
10-12
Text complexity
advanced
Length
176 pages
Why to read
- Insight into Historical Context: The book provides a glimpse into the life of a Jewish family during the Great Depression, offering readers a chance to learn about and understand the historical and cultural challenges of that era.
- Relatable Themes: 'Looking for Me' explores universal themes such as identity, family dynamics, and the search for individuality within a large family, making it a relatable read for people of all ages.
- Engaging Narrative Style: Betsy R. Rosenthal employs a verse narrative, which makes the story engaging and accessible, particularly for younger readers or those who enjoy poetic storytelling.
- Positive Representation: The book offers positive representation of Jewish culture and history, which is important for promoting diversity and understanding in literature, and can be especially meaningful for Jewish readers seeking stories that reflect their heritage.