Jacksonville Public Library

The star that always stays, by Anna Rose Johnson

eng

no index present

Ages 8-12, Holiday House

Grades 4-6, Holiday House

fiction

The star that always stays

1289618104

by Anna Rose Johnson

Accelerated Reader, MG, 5.9, 13, 13, 515555

"Growing up on Beaver Island, Grand-père told Norvia stories -- stories about her ancestor Migizi, about Biboonke-o-nini the Wintermaker, about the Crane Clan and the Reindeer Clan. He sang her songs in the old language, and her grandmothers taught her to make story quilts and maple candy. On the island, Norvia was proud of her Ojibwe heritage. Things are different in the city. Here, Norvia's mother asks her to pretend she's not Native at all -- even to Mr. Ward, Ma's new husband, and to Vernon, Norvia's irritating new stepbrother. In fact, there are a lot of changes in the city: ten-cent movies, gleaming soda shops, speedy automobiles, ninth grade. It's dizzying for a girl who grew up on the forested shores of Lake Michigan. Despite the move, the upheaval, and the looming threat of world war, Norvia and her siblings -- all five of them -- are determined to make 1914 their best year ever. Norvia is certain that her future depends upon her optimism...and upon her discretion. But how can she have the best year ever if she has to hide who she truly is? Sensitive, enthralling, and classic in sensibility (perfect for <i>Anne of Green Gables</i> fans), this tender coming-of-age story about an introspective and brilliant Native American heroine thoughtfully addresses serious issues like assimilation, racism, and divorce, as well as everygirl problems like first crushes, making friends, fitting in, and the joys and pains of a blended family. Often funny, often heartbreaking, <i>The Star That Always Stays</i> is a fresh and vivid story directly inspired by Anna Rose Johnson's family history." --Book jacket

pre adolescent