10/10/08

Title: Dreaming of America, An Ellis Island Story
Author: Eve Bunting
Illustrator: Ben Stahl
Publisher: Eve Bunting
Publication Date: 2000
Genre: Nonfiction Picture Book
Audience: Gr. 6+

Overview: A compelling story about a young girl, Annie Moore, who is traveling from Cork, Ireland, to America with only her two younger brothers, Phillip and Anthony. The parents of these three kids are already in America, and have been for three years prior to the setting of the story. Annie and her brothers had been living with their aunt and uncle during these past three years. During the trip from Ireland to America, Annie is in charge of taking care of her brothers, even though she is only fourteen. Along the way she meets some interesting people, experiences some rough times, and when she finally reaches America, she awaits the time when she will be reunited with her parents.

Activity: Have the children think of a time when they went on a vacation with their family. When they come up with their vacation spot, have them write a story about that trip. What did they do? What did they see? Were there any bad spots? Did they meet anyone new? Have them write all about the trip and draw a picture to accompany their story.

Reviewer’s Name: Krista Jensen