Book Title: Flip-Flop Girl
Author(s): Katherine Paterson
Illustrator/Photographer/Artist: Stephen Johnson
Publisher: Lodestar Books
Copyright Date: 1994
Genre: Contemporary realistic fiction novel
Brief Annotation: After the death of her father and moving to a new city, nine-year-old Vinnie finds herself lonely in her new school and spiteful of all the attention her five-year-old brother, Mason, receives after he stops talking. Vinnie meets an unusual and puzzling girl named Lupe, whose father is said to have murdered her mother, and through their relationship learns not to judge people from the outside. Vinnie faces many harsh and difficult experiences to realize this lesson, but it is well worth it in the end.
Your Rating (1-5) and why: 4—Like other Katherine Paterson’s novels, Flip-Flop Girl gives a strong voice and lots of depth to the characters. Vinnie is a very authentic portrayal of a nine-year-old girl, with her own faults and strengths, and I found myself rooting for her to do the right thing. Lupe, too, is an interesting and complex character, and I was left wanting to know more about her at the book’s conclusion. This novel addresses some difficult issues in a way that kids can relate to and understand, and I think kids will identify strongly with the characters and feel concern and compassion for them. Although it’s not one of my top favorite Paterson books, it’s definitely worth a read.
Readers who will like this book: Children who enjoy realistic contemporary fiction novels about kids their own age; kids who have siblings, especially girls with a younger brother; adults looking to read or recommend a good book to children who are struggling to fit in, dealing with feelings of isolation, or who have experienced the loss of someone close
Question to ask about this book before a read aloud: Have you ever moved to a new school (or joined a new team or club) or gone somewhere where you didn’t know anyone? How did this make you feel? How did you cope with the situation and your feelings?
Optional, but noted as extra effort:
1. Interest Level (age): Grades 3—5
2. Grade Level Equivalent (grade): 5.4
3. List awards: ALA Notable Children’s Book, School Library Journal Best Book, American Bookseller Spring Pick of the Lists for Middle Readers, New York Public Library – 100 titles for Reading and Sharing
4. Book trailer: None
I didn't recognize this book as one by Katherine Paterson, one of my favorite authors, so I'm happy to know about it now. The subject matter is definitely unusual, but it sounds like the lessons learned transcend the specific situation to speak to larger themes around friendship, family, and loss. I'm going to check it out!
ReplyDeleteOne idea: With your pre-reading question, if students have never moved themselves, I'm sure they could still answer the question by thinking about what it would feel like. What do you think?