Synopsis
From Newbery media winner Karen Hesse comes an unforgettable story of an immigrant family's journey to America.
"America," the girl repeated. "What will you do there?"
I was silent for a little time.
"I will do everything there," I answered.
Rifka knows nothing about America when she flees from Russia with her family in 1919. But she dreams that in the new country...
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Reviews
“Hesse's vivacious tale colorfully and convincingly refreshes the immigrant experience.” —Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
“Told with unusual grace and simplicity, an unforgettable picture of immigrant courage, ingenuity, and perseverance.” —Pointer, Kirkus Reviews
“What especially raises it above docu-novel is the emerging sense of Rifka's personality. Bald from the ringworm, poor and needy, she proves she's no greenhorn; she has a gift for languages, she's brave and clever, and if she talks too much, so be it.” —Booklist
“Based largely on the memories of the author's great-aunt, this historical novel has a plot, characters, and style that will make it an often-requested choice from young readers. A vivid, memorable, and involving reading experience.” —School Library Journal, Starred Review