Reviewed by Jane O'Reilly (The New York Times Book Review, May 18, 2006, Vol. 108, No. 20)
http://vnweb.hwwilsonweb.com.login.ez...

Horn Book (The Horn Book Guide, Fall 2003)
'Rodzina is prickly, stubborn, and heart-sore, but she's also honest, likable, and smart'

Kirkus (Kirkus Reviews, March 15, 2003, Vol. 71, No. 6)

Another kids book from Karen Cushman, who has a great sense of history and an even better eye for detail; this one is about the orphan trains that took “unwanted” American children west in the late 1800’s. Though it’s not as enchanting as some of her medieval stories, this book still had Cushman’s trademarks: the endearing, diamond-in-the-rough main character, the slightly wacky supporting cast, and the gradual enlightenment that helps along the happy ending. A solidly enjoyable read.

The book Rodzina tells the coming-of-age story of a strong female character and her resilience to never give up her search for a family. The story shows Rodzina’s strong will, hope, and personal integrity. Rodzina gave fate a fighting chance.

Rodzina is an excellent historical fiction book for upper elementary students. It tells a good story and gives the image of the hardship, loneliness, fear, and struggles of these orphaned children. The author’s note provides additional information on the origin of orphanages, orphan trains, and a bibliography of selected resources for students to read or view. The author included Polish culture and customs throughout the story. A glossary of Polish words and pronunciations is also provided. ( )

Rodzina
Author: Karen Cushman
Publisher/Date: Clarion Books, New York-(2003)

Summary: A twelve year old Polish American girl is boarded into an orphan train in Chicago with fears about traveling to the west and a life of unpaid slavery. Rodzina was a young girl that had lost her whole family. Her two brothers were burned in a house fire, her father had died while he was working, and her mother passed away for the fever. Rodzina had lived off the streets of Chicago until one day the orphan agency picked her up.

Personal Extension: This historical fiction book was very interesting to find out through a little twelve year old girl all the things that she had been put through and still just at a small age. Rodzina went through some hard times but the end tops it off and really got me!

Extension: In the classroom I would discuss slavery and what it was back then. What the people had to go through if they were a slave.

www.karencushman.com ( )