Wheels of Change
By Andrea Beach,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Plucky heroine faces turbulent times in engaging tale.
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What's the Story?
Twelve-year-old Emily's father is a carriage maker in early 1900s Washington, D.C., and she likes nothing better than helping her father and especially Henry, the blacksmith who works for him. But blacksmithing isn't an appropriate interest for a young lady in 1909, and Emily's forever being sent back to help her mother around the house. As automobiles become more and more popular, Emily wonders what will become of her family if no one needs carriages built any more. And how can she find her own way when everything around her is changing so quickly?
Is It Any Good?
Emily's adventures in WHEELS OF CHANGE will entertain kids and get them engrossed in 1900s American history. Important issues such as segregation and women's rights are explored in a way that will make sense to kids and open their eyes to daily life during a time of tremendous social upheaval.
But what kids will notice most as they read is how much they enjoy following Emily's exploits and adventures. Her narrative voice is believable and engaging and makes it easy for kids to put themselves in her place. The plot is well-paced, building naturally to major events and a hopeful, satisfying ending.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the world changes. What kinds of changes seem scary? What kinds are exciting?
Emily is a bit of a worrier. What makes you worry? Does worrying help you solve problems, or does it create even more problems?
Why are books about olden times so popular? Can they teach us anything about ourselves and our world now?
Book Details
- Author: Darlene Beck Jacobson
- Genre: Historical Fiction
- Topics: Great Girl Role Models , History
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Creston Books
- Publication date: September 23, 2014
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 8 - 13
- Number of pages: 198
- Available on: Hardback
- Last updated: July 12, 2017
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