"In this strong first novel, a teenager whose school project forces him to visit a senile woman in a convalescent home becomes wrapped up in her stories...Derby is adept at incorporating telling details of parochial school and home life, often with touches of humor. A novel that deals with hero worship and that has much to say to adolescent readers."-School Library Journal
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Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal
Grade 6-10 In this strong first novel, a teenager whose school project forces him to visit a senile woman in a convalescent home becomes wrapped up in her stories of her brother, for whom she mistakes him. As Barry learns more about Willie, he begins to idolize the rebellious, independent young man, who apparently stood up to his parents by marrying a servant and fathering her child before being killed in World War I. Barry's ideals are shattered, however, when he discovers that Willie allowed his parents to have the marriage annulled and the child given away for adoption so that he could marry the woman of their choice. This hits the boy especially hard, as he himself is adopted and has questions about his natural parents. Barry's abilities, insecurities and actions are on target; his changing feelings about volunteering in the convalescent home are especially well drawn. Derby parallels some of Miss Pierce's past with Barry's present in a structure that is never forced or contrived. The story unfolds gradually, letting readers' curiosity about the mystery surrounding Willie grow, as layer upon layer of secrets are slowly unraveled during Barry's frustrating conversations with Miss Pierce. Derby is adept at incorporating telling details of parochial school and home life, often with touches of humor. A novel that deals with hero worship and that has much to say to adolescent readers. David Gale, "School Library Journal"
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
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