Lucky Broken Girl
By Ruth Behar
256 pages – ages 9+
Published by Nancy Paulsen Books on April 11, 2017
Synopsis from Publisher- “Ruthie Mizrahi and her family recently emigrated from Castro’s Cuba to New York City. Just when she’s finally beginning to gain confidence in her mastery of English—and enjoying her reign as her neighborhood’s hopscotch queen—a horrific car accident leaves her in a body cast and confined her to her bed for a long recovery. As Ruthie’s world shrinks because of her inability to move, her powers of observation and her heart grow larger and she comes to understand how fragile life is, how vulnerable we all are as human beings, and how friends, neighbors, and the power of the arts can sweeten even the worst of times.”
What I Thought- Reading this book was an emotional experience. Behar tackles the subjects of immigration, racism and the frustration of being isolated due to an accident in a compelling story. I loved the concept of this book and the fact the main character was an immigrant. I really enjoy stories that inject flavors of other cultures in the text. We do get glimpses of Irish, Mexican, Cuban and Indian characters, all whom help Ruthie navigate her struggles in the story. Although there are moments of hope and redemption, I found the story was rather gloomy. The constant pessimism from Ruthie wore me down. I found myself not really understanding what Ruthie was thinking and who she is but rather reacting to her actions in the story. I really think this book could be amazing with a bit more understanding of the character’s feelings. Still, I think kids in situations similar to Ruthie’s – hospitalized kids or those isolated because of cultural differences, will connect with the story. The book would best be described as a fictionalized memoir, because Behar explains that the story is based on her real life experience, but that she changed some of the facts to things she wished had happened. All of that was explained in her Author’s Note at the end of the book. When I realized that it was based on the author’s own trauma, I appreciated the story even more, as it added realism to the story for me. I wish the note was at the beginning of the story, I think I would have connected to it even more. Having said this, I wouldn’t hesitate to try another book from Behar. I recommend this book to fans of recovery stories that contain a great life lesson within the pages!
I give this book four out of five bookworms.
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Categories: Age 9+
Oh my! This would have been a hard story for you to read considering what’s happened recently with your cousins. But I was impressed with your professionalism of this review. Even in the worst of situations there is hope, there are friends and family who love and care. I loved that you pointed out the cultural theme. We need more books like this. Thanks for sharing Erik. Take care.
Thank you Ms. Tulloch. Actually, I had written this fairly close before the accident, but I just couldn’t post it until after we knew what was going on. :/ It was a nice book however. 🙂
Erik, you did well writing this review at this time. Your insights are always impressive.
Thank you CG Lynn. I appreciate your saying so. 🙂
Hello Erik! Long time, no see. Lovely to read your blog posts again. I hope you are in fine health and that Josie is also well and happy and must be growing up now. My best regards to you and to your parents!
I am so sorry Erik. I have just learned what happened to your cousins and their mother. My deepest sympathies go out to you and all your family.
Thank you for your thoughts Dr. Niamh. They are much appreciated. 🙂
Thank you Dr. Niamh! I hope you are doing fine as well. 🙂
This sounds like an interesting read! The fact it is based on the author’s personal experience makes it even more timely. I like the diverse cast of characters. Liked your honest review!
Thank you Mrs. Tilton. It was a neat book. 🙂