Bowery Girl

Written by Kim Taylor Blakemore

Mollie and Annabelle are two friends living in 1883 Manhattan. Mollie is a pickpocket and Annabelle, a prostitute. The two share a dream of moving to the other side of the river when the Brooklyn Bridge is completed. When they meet Miss DuPre who runs a settlement house, it appears their dreams just might come true. But there are dangers around every corner in the tenement district.

The author presents a vivid picture of the setting in Victorian Manhattan, and the characters appear authentic. I especially enjoyed the dialogue. If you enjoy historical fiction, this one is an enjoyable quick read.

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Fatechanger: Penny Lost

Written by L. M. Poplin

Penn is a fourteen-year old girl who knows her way around the streets of Boston. Clever and curious, she attends one of Boston’s finest public schools and loves the library. On the other hand, Penn has learned to be tough, she was born with a heart defect, and her father left suddenly when she was seven.

One day, Penn is off exploring the city when she meets an old woman who gives her a penny to make a wish on. When she gets into trouble for stealing and uses it, she is transported back to 1915.

Penn’s whole world is turned upside down. She is now an orphan who struggles to survive. Penn worries how she will survive without her medication and if she can get back home. Penn gets mixed up with thieves and gangs. She masquerades as a boy. All she really wants is to fit in and find a true friend.

Will her secret be discovered? Can she find a way back to the twenty-first century?

The author paints colorful characters that succeed in involving the reader emotionally. There are lots of twists and turns to keep readers actively engaged. Recommended for teens and adults.

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