From reading this non-fiction book, children will learn facts about Ellis island and know more about the experiences of immigrants who went through there. The author, Carol Bierman, tells the story of her grandfather, Julius "Yehuda" Weinstein." He came with his mother and sister from Russia at the age of twelve to Ellis Island. The book describes the hardships they faced in Russia and how America was a land of hope. Once they arrived at Ellis Island, they faced uncertainty about whether they would be sent back. But Julius had an older brother who was willing to sponsor them. Readers can learn more about Julius' life once he arrived in America. Photos and information about Ellis Island relate to parts of the story. The book also has illustrations done in sepia-toned watercolors by Laurie McGaw.

This book was an excellent cross between autobiography and historical reference. The author explored her father's journey from Holland to America as an immigrant. Between the details of describing the horrors of a war torn country from which her father came, she describes the processes and the hope that Ellis Island symbolized for many foreigners. She also describes the hardships that often presented themselves while people were on the brink of hope at Ellis Island. I think this book, with its references to timely post cards and photographs, makes a good social studies reference. I believe that its contents could serve as a catalyst for researching more about Ellis Island. ( )

This is the story of immigrant Rachel Weinstein and her two children Yehuda and Esther. The book tells the story from them being questioned when they enter the United States. They go to Ellis Island where they are further questioned and have medical examinations, although Yehuda has trouble at this point, they all make it into New York to begin their new lives. Throughout the book, they discuss their reasons they left Russia and how they felt when they were on their journey to the United States. In addition to the story the book has real pictures and artifacts from the time period. This is a very useful book to use in the classroom to teach about immigration and how it impacted the United States. It is very descriptive and the artifacts help show how the characters were feeling throughout their journey.

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Story of a Russian Family's journey to America