Hana in the Time of the Tulips by Deborah Noyes

Noyes, Deborah. Hana in the Time of the Tulips, illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline. Candlewick Press, 2009. $7.99. In Holland during the 1630s, tulips were like gold. Hana’s father is a merchant who trades tulips. He is always tired and unhappy. Hana is determined to find a cure for her father’s unhappiness and gives him a rosary, fireflies, and a finally a painting of a tulip. Meanwhile, the tulip market crashes and Hana’s father fears he will lose everything. The 1630s Dutch tulip speculation and subsequent economic collapse can be compared to the current economic downturn, making this a reprint timely one. The author’s note at the end gives the history behind the story. The gorgeous illustrations are reminiscent in style of the Dutch painter Rembrandt—who makes a brief appearance in the story. EL- ADVISABLE. Samantha, Public Librarian.