Friday, September 21, 2012

The Moon Over High Street by Natalie Babbitt - OPTIONAL


Babbitt, Natalie The Moon Over High Street, 148 pgs. Michael Di Capua Books Scholastic, 2012. $15.95. Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: G.

 Joe’s parents died in a car accident when he was only two months old leaving him to be raised by his grandmother. The summer he is 12-years-old he makes the trip to the small town where his cousin Myra lives to spend some quality time with the only other member of his family. While there he comes into contact with Mr. Boulderwall an incredibly wealthy factory owner who makes the surprise decision to adopt Joe and make him his heir. Will Joe give up his dream of becoming an astronomer to live a life of wealth and ease or will he stay true to himself?

 The book is a short and to the point story that tells a tale that has been told many times before. Will Joe stay true to his dreams or take the easy way to riches and security? The plot is trite and predictable with the reader never doubting what the outcome will be. The rich people up on the hill are painted as selfish and oblivious while the common folk are portrayed as hard working and brave. This book is a quick read that gives easy answers and a comfortable ending, but will be forgotten as soon as the last page is turned.

 EL (4-6)—OPTIONAL. AEB Social Studies Teacher

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