The treatment of African-Americans at the time isn't glossed over, but the group manages to work around as much as they can, which I imagine is the way that many people operated. Racial themes are apparent, and the father's equanimity about Abraham's background and in his own resistance to the societal expectations of the time are a nice touch. Still, the father is a strong support and is trying to do what he thinks best for his family. Her longing for her mother is palpable and sweet, so readers should know that the resolution of the situation might be worrisome to younger readers- Chestnut's mother does state that she doesn't want to raise the children. It would be good to see more books on this era, since the best one is still the primary source Cheaper by the Dozen, the memoir by the Gilbreth children.Ĭhestnut is a concerned sister who is trying to care for her siblings the best she can, even if she does make some bad decisions in the process. Snakes & Stones is a worthy entry to a short list that includes Long's Whistle in the Dark, Myers' Harlem Summer, and Fantaskey's Isabel Feeney: Star Reporter. There are not too many books that cover the 1920s, which is a shame, since it was an interesting and diverse time.
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