Synopsis: Rifka knows nothing about America when she flees from Russia
with her family in 1919. But she dreams she will at last be safe from the
Russian soldiers and their harsh treatment of the Jews in the new country.
Throughout her journey, Rifka carries with her a cherished volume of poetry by
Alexander Pushkin. In it, she records her observations and experiences in the
form of letters to her beloved cousin she has left behind. Strong-hearted and
determined, Rifka must endure a great deal: humiliating examinations by doctors
and soldiers, deadly typhus, separation from all she has ever known and loved,
murderous storms at sea―and as if this is not enough, the loss of her glorious
golden hair. And even if she does make it to America, she's not sure America
will have her. (from the online description)
Review: Told in a series of letters from Rifka to her cousin, this
is an endearing, realistic, and ultimately, hopeful book. Hesse takes the
reader with Rifka from Russia to America, through hardship and hope. Rifka's voice
draws in the reader, placing you with her as she walks through the trials. I
highly recommend this for kids, as a way to learn about history from an
engaging viewpoint. This would be excellent in conjunction with the history of
Russian during the revolution after WWI, and for learning about immigration to
the US during that turbulent time.
Bookmarks: 8 of 10
Awards: 1992 International Reading Association Award; 1992 National
Jewish Book Award;
2012 Phoenix Award from the Children's Literature
Association
ISBN: 0-440-83050-8
Date Finished: 12-30-2015
Pages: 148
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