April 1, 2003
Wrought with the same sensitivity as her debut novel, Dovey Coe, Dowell's quietly affecting novel explores the fragile camaraderie between two 11-year-old girls who are placed in the East Tennessee Children's Home. Narrator Maddie knows there is something special about Murphy the moment the worldly-wise girl arrives. In hopes of sealing a friendship as soon as possible ("When a new kid comes into the Home, you've got to stake your claim quick if you want dibs on being friends"), Maddie, with trepidation, shows Murphy her most prized possession-a scrapbook filled with pictures of houses ("I was afraid she'd say something that would ruin the Book of Houses forever. can take the things you love and twist them around with a few words so you can't bear to ever look at them"). Inspired by the book, Murphy decides they should build a house of their own. The author creates a poignant contrast between the children's rich fantasies, expressed inside the fort, and the sadness that haunts each of them in the outside world. While Maddie dreams of a brighter future, Murphy directs her attention backward, re-creating her history and identity. The author gently reveals the tragedies they have suffered as well as the strength they gain when they are united. A celebration of friendship and of the healing powers of the imagination. Ages 10-14.
February 24, 2003
Wrought with the same sensitivity as her debut novel, Dovey Coe, Dowell's quietly affecting novel explores the fragile camaraderie between two 11-year-old girls who are placed in the East Tennessee Children's Home. Narrator Maddie knows there is something special about Murphy the moment the worldly-wise girl arrives. In hopes of sealing a friendship as soon as possible ("When a new kid comes into the Home, you've got to stake your claim quick if you want dibs on being friends"), Maddie, with trepidation, shows Murphy her most prized possession—a scrapbook filled with pictures of houses ("I was afraid she'd say something that would ruin the Book of Houses
forever. can take the things you love and twist them around with a few words so you can't bear to ever look at them"). Inspired by the book, Murphy decides they should build a house of their own. The author creates a poignant contrast between the children's rich fantasies, expressed inside the fort, and the sadness that haunts each of them in the outside world. While Maddie dreams of a brighter future, Murphy directs her attention backward, re-creating her history and identity. The author gently reveals the tragedies they have suffered as well as the strength they gain when they are united. A celebration of friendship and of the healing powers of the imagination. Ages 10-14.
Starred review from October 13, 2003
Wilbanks is a find; with just the right touch of Tennessee twang, her narration adds an extra layer of nuance to Dowell's complex and utterly memorable characters. Thoughtful and imaginative, 12-year-old Maddie considers herself a fairly talented storyteller—at least among the other kids at the East Tennessee Children's Home. But Maddie meets her match in Murphy, a new arrival who tells tales of her dead parents' exotic travels and exciting careers, as well as of her fascinating friends and relatives. Maddie bravely risks rejection and disappointment (something she already knows well) to join Murphy's intriguing orbit. But the line between stories and lies, friendships and loyalties becomes blurred during Murphy's brief stay at the home. And after Maddie realizes the truth about Murphy's circumstances, Maddie begins to focus on a happier future for herself. Wilbanks gets everything right here—including very kidlike cadences throughout. And she carefully maintains Dowell's balanced blend of occasional humor, poignant moments and revelations about some painful realities. Ages 10-up.
September 6, 2004
"This quietly affecting novel explores the fragile camaraderie between two 11-year-old girls who are placed in a children's home," wrote PW
, calling it "a celebration of friendship and of the healing powers of the imagination." Ages 10-14.