Gr 5-8–In 1880’s County Cork, Ireland, families are struggling to pay rent to new English landowners and are being evicted from homes that their families built generations ago. Anna, the middle sibling in a large family, must uphold her promise to her mother to protect their home and land. However, when the bailiff comes knocking and there’s not enough money to pay rent, Anna runs. Giff draws on personal family history to tell Anna’s painful and courageous story. Written in verse, this is a great introduction to Irish history and the genre of historical fiction. Primary source photographs and a glossary lend to the novel’s authenticity.
VERDICT This is a great selection for young fans of historical fiction who may not be ready for something weightier. A general purchase for public and school libraries that see a desire for historical fiction or address this period of history in class.
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