Fans of Across the
Universe and The Mixed-Up Files of
Basil E Frankweiler are encouraged to read the story of Bets and her
mysterious friend “Miss E”. History, mystery, conspiracy and fun are woven
together into this delicious tale that, I must admit, I consumed in one
sitting! Elizabeth aka “Bets” is a teenage girl in 1967. She is a new girl, an
army brat and a young adult about to embark on a series of changes in her life.
When given an assignment to identify important figures of American history,
Bets notices an incredible likeness between a defiant spunky aviatrix and her
town’s very own Miss E. As Bets uncovers the truth about Miss E, she also
begins to uncover the truth about her own place in history as Bets is
introduced to the tensions surrounding the Vietnam War. Herberger encourages a
message of social justice and free-thinking, but the book is heavily biased in
favor of the anti-war stance without ever exploring the other viewpoints. This
contradiction detracts from his advocacy of freedom, but nevertheless, remains
a thought-provoking, spirited look at a time when dissension was greatly
frowned upon. The story of Bets and Miss E is sure to inspire and intrigue
readers of coming-of-age stories and historical fiction.
Reviewed by: Chiara Genovese, Zauel Library
No comments:
Post a Comment