Aleutian Sparrow (by Karen Hesse)
common sense media says
Historical verse novel falls flat despite engaging subject.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this book deals with a little-known part of American history: Native Aleutian Islanders who were evacuated in advance of the Japanese
invasion of their islands. For three years they were held in camps,
supposedly for their protection, where a quarter of them died of various
diseases. In this fictional story, told in free verse, Vera's best friend is one of those who dies. Vera herself is a strong character: her grandfather tells her, "Your work is to know the ways of our
people." This she tries to do in the face of hardship,
disease, and death. Kids will need background, context, and help understanding how such a thing could have happened; you may want to read the author's factual notes in the book's afterward with them first.
Educational value:
The author includes facts that inspired Vera's story in the afterward. Readers will be moved by this unusual bit of history, and may want to
learn more about the Aleuts and other World War II stories.
learn more about the Aleuts and other World War II stories.
Positive role models:
Vera's grandfather tells her, "Your work is to know the ways of our
people." This she tries to do in the face of hardship,
disease, and death.
people." This she tries to do in the face of hardship,
disease, and death.
Violence:
Describes the toll the forced deportation has on the Aleuts. For example, Vera's best friend dies.
Sex:
Not applicable.
Language:
Not applicable.
Consumerism:
Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Not applicable.
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