Spinelli, Jerry. (2003). Milkweed: A novel. New York: Alfred A. Knopf.
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| Image Credit: Kidsreads.com |
An orphan child discovers friendship, racism, love, and his identity during the Holocaust.
“Stopthief”
is nameless, homeless, and parent-less. But once he meets a respected
street kid, Uri, he assumes a new identity and a new life as Misha
Pilsudski. Just as Misha begins to get comfortable as his new self, the
rise of Nazism and the Holocaust will once again alter his life course.
In Milkweed,
Newbery award-winning author Jerry Spinelli demonstrates his ability to
interpret a horrible event in history and craft an inspiring historical
fiction novel for young adults. The unique title sparks the imagination
of the reader as they wonder when the significance will be revealed.
The book jacket is hauntingly beautiful with a sepia-toned picture of
the back of a stone angel statue, which is another symbol that is
present throughout the story. The background and experiences of each of
the main characters manage to evoke respect, sadness, laughter, and
empathy.
Spinelli masterfully integrates several themes into Milkweed
such as identify, loss, friendship, and coming-of-age that are relevant
and appropriate for the intended audience. The themes are flawlessly
executed throughout the entire book which makes for a story that is
strong, emotional, and inspiring at the same time. Some historical
details are present but Spinelli relies more on storyline than facts,
which keeps young adult readers interested without sounding like a
textbook.This book is appropriate for children 11 and up as it is concise and uses short sentences with intermediate vocabulary. Milkweed reminds all readers that history can repeat itself if we do not learn from past events.
Awards: - ALA Best Book for Young Adults, 2004
- Booklist Top 10 Historical Fiction for Youth Selection
- Book Links Lasting Connections Selection
- Carolyn W. Field Award from the Pennsylvania Library Association, 2004
- Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choice, 2004
- National Jewish Book Award Finalist, 2004
- New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age
- The Golden Kite Award Winner (Fiction), 2003
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