From School Library Journal
Gr 3-6-Like many New Yorkers in 1930, Julie Singer, 11, is fascinated by the construction of the Empire State Building. Her interest grows from keeping a scrapbook of newspaper articles to secret trips to watch the Mohawk "Skywalkers." Julie also has another secret-she has discovered that her father is unemployed. With this troubling knowledge, she secretly convinces her uncle to hire her in his dress-collar factory. Julie's secrets lead her to a new friend, the son of a Mohawk construction worker. As the story progresses, the girl comes to realize that strength and courage take different forms, and often develop through the support of family and friends. In the end, the family looks forward to a leaner but happy lifestyle. While the conclusion is pat and a bit unrealistic, the plot does flow smoothly and quickly. The author has used newspaper clippings and Julie's scrapbook to weave factual information into the story. Appropriately placed, gray-toned illustrations reflect the time period. Character development is limited. Julie has a distinct personality, but the peripheral figures are used only to accentuate her character and give her motivation. Empire Dreams does not compare favorably to most of the "Dear America" titles (Scholastic); however, it does have value for reluctant readers who want a short, quick read with a few illustrations.-Carolyn Janssen, Children's Learning Center of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH
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