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THE MIGHTY MISS MALONE

Author Information
Author's Last Name: 
Curtis
Author's First Name: 
Christopher Paul
Publisher: 
Wendy Lamb
Publication Date: 
2012
2013 Nomination (not yet selected): 

Rich with detail, heartache, and humor, and set in the Great Depression, Christopher Paul Curtis’s powerful storytelling sweeps readers alongside Deza Malone (whom readers may remember meeting in Newbery and Coretta Scott King winner “Bud, Not Buddy”) as she travels from Indiana to Michigan when economic hardships, in part racially driven, force her family to move, looking for work. Deza and the rest of her family are lovable and unforgettable characters, each with their own brand of strength, grit, and optimism. Ten to Fourteen. Sylvie Shaffer

Comments

Notes for March 23

by ladamson - 03/29/2012 - 10:11am
Notes for March 23 Meeting

Positive Comments:

  • All of the characters are developed and believable.
  • With such rich characterizations and funny situations, this book would make it a great “read-aloud.”
  • This smart, slightly conceited female character delights readers.
  • The plot starts light and happy before easing into the painful portions.
  • The playfulness of language with its alliteration and funny names enriches the story.

Observations:

  • Someone has used the book with children says it is successful.

Concerns:

  • Why doesn’t the character ever feel like writing Clarice a letter when she writes to her father?
  • Is this the kind of book that adults “hope” children will like?