Book 14 (audio): Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson

Look--another historical fiction book!

Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson is set in Philadelphia, PA as yellow fever sweeps through the capitol. Sixteen-year-old Mattie Cook helps her mother run the coffee house that her father left behind when he passed away. Her grandfather also plays a prominent role in the story, as well as Eliza, a freed slave, that works as a cook in the coffee house.

This book is set during an actual yellow fever epidemic that wiped out around 5,000 people just in Philly. The sweltering summer heat keeps the fever moving through the city streets. Everyone tries to do the best they can with what they are given, and droves of individuals leave the city in hopes of finding themselves in an area that hasn't been affected by the fever. Mattie is forced to overcome obstacle after obstacle, first being sent away to a friend's farm, then not being allowed to leave the city, eventually catching the fever herself, and so many more.

At first, Mattie seems like a naive child, only really caring about the matters that affect her personally. Her hardships push her to change and adapt, creating a young woman who is decisive, strong, empathetic, and caring. She is an impressive character and embodies traits of quality.

I would recommend this novel to anyone!

Book 13 (audio): Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

I am falling behind! I need to review several books that I have read in the past month.

I picked up Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys based on the recommendation of another wonderful teacher at school. When I was chatting with her about the fact that I was actually enjoying historical fiction, she jumped at the chance to suggest this to me.

The story begins in 1941 Lithuania, when Soviet-era Russia invades the country. Lina, along with her mother and younger brother, are forced out of their home late at night. They end their journey at a labor camp in Siberia. Her father was arrested a few days before this took place and Lina is frantically, desperately, trying to find ways to contact him.

Throughout her time at the camp, she deals with the struggles of a working life with too little food, too little comfort, and too little empathy. Her talents as an artist keep her connected to herself and give her something to put a little bit of energy.

Once again, I realize how completely unaware of history I am. I feel like this is one more piece of WWII that I was missing. The book itself is such an easy read and so touching. If you are an emotionally connected reader, this will get the tears!

One more interesting piece to this book is that Ruta is actually the daughter of a Lithuanian refugee. Her personal connection to this historical event adds to the power of her writing.

Definitely give this one a try!