Amanda / Miranda

Because I enjoyed other books by Richard Peck, I thought I would like this one as well. I was wrong.

The story of two girls, one rich, one poor, both of whom look alike, was quite boring and tedious.

When the rich Amanda uses her servant girl Miranda for devious purposes, the tables are turned.

With the backdrop of the sinking of the Titanic, Peck weaves a tale that never quite lives up to his usual standard.

Not recommended.

This book was about 300 pages too long, but I can't think of any portion or subplot to cut from it. All of it seems completely necessary to the story, which is complicated, emotional and very well articulated. Peck writes from the perspective of both Amanda and Miranda as well as from the third person omniscient perspective with none of the jarring transitions other books who employ that device seem to fall prey too. The historical period clothing and home decor are vibrantly described, especially by a male writer.
I picked this book up originally because of the fact that a voyage on the Titanic figures prominently in the story; however, the interlude does not seem terribly original, and a lot of what happens is foreshadowed quite show more heavily earlier in the book.
Otherwise, though, I did enjoy the majority of the book. show less

An intriguing historical romance follows Miranda, a lowly Irish servant who bears an almost identical resemblance to her manipulative mistress, Amanda. Miranda loses both men she loves to Amanda's plots and manipulation - but in a poetic twist, Miranda assumes Amanda's identity after Amanda's death on the maiden voyage of the Titanic. The dramatic plot, dual romances, and upstairs/downstairs servant relationships are intriguing and entertaining, but the book will probably appeal more to teen girls than any other audience - how many men or teen boys would be swept up by forbidden romance and intrigue? Take for instance this excerpt: "I had married the only man in the world I could ever love. Yet I was married already, and to quite a show more different man." The story line, while exciting and romantic, is somewhat vapid and convenient. It is a fun example of "brain candy" (as I like to say) - lots of fun to read, but not much substance. show less

One of Peck's best efforts. The dichotomy between wealthy Amanda and servant Amanda really shows up the difference between classes. What Amanda chooses naturally, Miranda can only wish for.

I read this book in 1988, when I was in the 8th grade and absolutely loved it! I re-read it a few years ago now that I'm older and still find it to be a great story. Being set around the sinking of the Titanic gives it a great subtext. I have to say this is one of my childhood favorites.

I had high expectations for this one. It did not live up to my expectations. The story contained very little about the Titanic, it was a very small part of the story. The story was basically spelled out in the description on the back of the book. No surprises here!

I loved this book the first time I read it, but it took me until years later to realize the connection to the Titanic. A wonderful book and a very interesting ending.