For the Life of Laetitia (Library Binding)

by Merle Hodge (Author) "When we set out down the Trace that morning, I wasn't feeling too joyful..." (more)
Key Phrases: Miss Velma, Uncle Leroy, Marlon Peters (more...)

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly
Readers may be reminded of Mildred Taylor's Cassie Logan on meeting bright, strong-willed Laetitia, who struggles against poverty and prejudice while seeking an education in an urban secondary school miles away from her Caribbean village. Because Ma cannot afford the cost of a long commute, Laetitia must live in the city with her father, a boastful, self-serving man who is quick to lose his temper with his ornery son and meek second wife. Besides being miserable at her new home, Laetitia experiences difficulties at school. Although she excels in every subject, she becomes discouraged by the cynicism of some of her teachers and classmates. The girl is especially saddened by the hopelessness felt by best friend Anjanee, a failing student who is afraid of ending up like her overworked, unappreciated mother. Hodge paints a rather dismal picture of women's conditions in the Caribbean, placing particular emphasis on education as the key to their emancipation. In narrative rich with local color, she contrasts city and rural life and relates problems common to both settings. Her cast of multidimensional characters expresses a range of attitudes about education, equality and traditional values. Readers will easily empathize with this heroine and the numerous obstacles on her road to independence. Ages 12-up.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

From School Library Journal
Grade 6-8-- Set in an unnamed Caribbean country, this novel introduces Laetitia, who has won a place in the government secondary school. In order to attend, however, she must leave her close-knit rural village, where she lives with her grandparents and relatives, and move to her father's home in La Puerta. Although her father has money and values her achievements, he is domineering and abusive toward his new wife and son. As the term goes on, he refuses to let Lacey visit her family on weekends. All is not rosy in school either, for several teachers are incompetent and look down on the students. Lacey befriends a shy girl of Asian Indian heritage, but Anjanee's difficult life drives her to depression and suicide. Lacey, too, breaks down from the pressure, but caring relatives work out a solution that, while not ideal, will allow her to stay in school. Hodge has written a thoughtful, evenhanded novel that will prod readers to examine their own values. Unfortunately, its appeal is limited by a slow start and a first-person voice that is often too adult. The author shows the diversity of the West Indies through food, holidays, expressions, place names, and some of the area's racial and social complexities. However, there is not enough information to give readers unfamiliar with the culture a full picture, and there is no glossary. The story may attract readers of a West Indian heritage, but without additional explanation, few others will be drawn to it. --Lyn Miller-Lachmann, Siena College Library, Loudonville, NY
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Product Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
  
• Library Binding
• Publisher: Rebound by Sagebrush (October 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0785757163
• ISBN-13: 978-0785757160
• Product Dimensions: 7 x 4.4 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.7 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #6,678,559 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars this book is good, January 1, 2003

By A Customer

This review is from: For the Life of Laetitia (Aerial Fiction) (Paperback)

This book was very good. It was about a girl, Laetitia (pronouced La-tee-sha) who lives in the islands. Sh got exepted in a secondary school, and lives with her father <dont confuse pappy with her father, pappy is her grandfather- also dont confuseMa with Mammy Patsy, Ma is her Grandmother>

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Book!, February 22, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: For the Life of Laetitia (Aerial Fiction) (Paperback)

"For the Life of Laetitia"is a wonderful book about a young girl who lives in the Carribean. Lacey is the first of her family to go to secondary school. This sparks sudden interest from her father, who she barley knows. Lacey exceeds above all of her class mates at her new school. She meets a new friend who she grows to love and need. In the long run, Anjanee (Lacey's friend) helps Lacey more than she could ever know. This book is essential for young people to read. It tells of determination,pressare, hard ships and struggle. Differances , family, friendships, and the simple things that bring happiness to life.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A very moving book!, May 6, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: For the Life of Laetitia (Hardcover)

I thought that "For the life of Laetitia" was an excellent book. I really got into the story and when her father started to get nasty I really wanted to meet him and slap him! My favourite part must have been when she got to go home with her grandmother and grandfather. But I also liked reading about the fun that her and Anjanee had. I was so upset when Anjanee died. I would recommend this book for ages 12-15 as some of the parts are for older children rather than younger.