Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson

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Stars: *****
This book was read for the Book Awards Challenge, Newbery Project and Young Adult Challenge.

Summary: Growing up on a tiny Chesapeake Bay Island, Louise reveals how Caroline robbed her of everything: her hopes for schooling, her friends, her mother, even her name. While everyone pampered Caroline, Louise began to learn the ways of the watermen and the secrets of the island where they lived. She dreamed of working as a waterman alongside her father, but she found that her dream did not satisfy the woman she was becoming. Along and unsure, Louise began to fight her way to a place where Caroline could not reach.

I have to say I wasn’t too sure about this book. I haven’t read any other Katherine Paterson although I did see the movie, Bridge to Terabithia. The summary just didn’t really grab me. However it wasn’t long into the book before I didn’t want to put it down. I felt pure anger towards Caroline and the parents for their treatment of Louise. I was enraged quite a few times during the book.

I liked the writing style and the story and look forward to reading more Katherine Paterson. I can see why it won the Newbery Award in 1981.
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About Kathleen

I've been a nonfiction lover for as long as I can remember. I love children's nonfiction as well and love to share my knowledge and the books I gained them from, with the world. I wish more people would give nonfiction a chance.