Historical novel

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Holm, Jennifer. 2010. TURTLE IN PARADISE. New York, NY: Random House. ISBN- 9780375836886.  

PLOT SUMMARY
Turtle is forced to go to Key West to live with relatives after her mother is hired as a housekeeper by an employer who dislikes children. Key West opens up a whole new world for Turtle especially when she discovers a treasure map.        

  
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
TURTLE IN PARADISE is set during the Great Depression in 1935. The author does a great job in describing characters and the general attitude for most people living during the depression. Turtle seems to be more mature and grown up than her own mother. I think the Holm’s does a good job in describing events from Turtle’s point of view. “Mama’s good at looking at the sunny side of life…I blame Hollywood.”  I think that many children feel as though they know everything and are smarter than even some adults. I think that many adults would enjoy reading the book in part due to all of the references to 1935 pop culture like orphan Annie and Shirley Temple. Holm’s included a author’s note at the end of the book she explains how the book was inspired by her great-grandmother. 

 

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
“This richly detailed novel was inspired by Holm's great-grandmother's stories. Readers who enjoy melodic, humorous tales of the past won't want to miss it.” - School Library Journal
"Turtle is just the right mixture of knowingness and hope; the plot is a hilarious blend of family dramas seasoned with a dollop of adventure." - Booklist

Honors

2011 Newbery Honor Book

An ALA Notable Book

Booklist Editor's Choice

Chicago Library Best of the Best

Texas Bluebonnet List

A Kirkus Reviews Best Children's Book of 2010

Spring 2010 Junior Library Guild Selection

New York Times Bestseller

CONNECTIONS

Create your own treasure map and go on a quest around the school with your students to find the treasure.

Turtle in Paradise

Our Only May Amelia