From: Renee McGrath <renee1023>
Date: Mon, 2 Dec 1996 22:58:45 -0500

Hello, fellow ccbc-er's. My name is Renee McGrath and I am a children's librarian at the Syosset Public Library. When I saw Ginny's post I had to come out of lurking and add my two cents.

My favorite title this year has to be by far _Belle Prater's Boy_ by Ruth White. I have recommended it now to dozens of people (children and adults). This book belongs on best of year lists and I think should be a contender for the Newbery.

I find it difficult to express all that I liked about it. It is a poignant story, about a boy whose mother leaves and doesn't return. He goes to stay with family and the results are heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time. It is beautifully crafted by White. It will make you laugh and cry. Characters are fully developed and believable. I read it awhile ago, and now that I'm writing about it, I think I will read it again. I'm sure that won't be the last time.

Try it out, I think you'll agree (I sound like I'm on Reading Rainbow!).

Sincerely,

Renee McGrath renee1023 at worldnet.att.net
Received on Mon 02 Dec 1996 09:58:45 PM CST