Sunday, July 13, 2014

Clara and Davie by Patricia Polacco -- ADVISABLE

Polacco, Patricia Clara and Davie: The True Story of Young Clara Barton. PICTURE BOOK. Scholastic Press, 2014. $17.99.

Long before Clara Barton became a legendary medical practitioner and started the Red Cross, she displayed an acuity for healing. She was also brave, damaged, and exceptionally smart. This book tells the story of her early years, showing her talents and her struggles, as well as her close relationship with her older brother Davie.

This is an interesting insight into an amazing woman. It was inspiring to see Barton overcome her speech difficulties and tense relationship with her domineering older sister in order to become the healer she was destined to be. I also enjoyed seeing how big a role her brother played in her history; one key person really can make a difference in someone else's life. This story is quite long and detailed for a read-aloud, although it would be helpful for individual students' research projects or for encouraging children who also wish to grow up and do great things despite any personal difficulties.

EL -- ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Caryn

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