Poupeney, Mollie. Her father's daughter - Book Review

Random House, Laurel-Leaf. 246p. c2000. 0-440-22879-4. $5.50. J

Growing up in the 1930s is especially difficult for Maggie Morrison, a young girl who spends most of her childhood moving from house to house, town to town. Maggie's father is an alcoholic, and she witnesses the sadness and the violence that alcohol can wreak on a family. She loves him, but she sees that he causes great pain to her mother. She is not an unhappy girl; her curiosity about the world is her greatest strength.

This is an amazing, thought-provoking coming-of-age story that will appeal to adolescent girls, who could easily identify with Maggie, watching her grow and mature from age 8 to 14. One memorable moment is Maggie's first experience buying a bra, which almost forces the transition from tomboy to young woman. Along with this come the advances of older men, which she does not understand, and the joy at discovering a best friend in a boy her age. This is a classic story of the turmoil of growing up in an unkind world that forces changes on adolescents, often making them become adult before their time. A strong and poignant main character makes this a memorable classic. Includes a reader's guide. Shaunna S. Silva, Teacher, Biddeford M.S., Biddeford, ME

COPYRIGHT 2002 Kliatt
COPYRIGHT 2003 Gale Group