Blessen

by Margaret Simon

Ever since a hurricane sent a water oak through the roof of Pawpee’s house crippling her grandfather, Blessen has lived with her mother, and grandfather Pawpee in a FEMA trailer. An accident involving her pet chicken, Blue, pushes Blessen into discoveries about faith, death, and her heritage.

Genres: Realistic Fiction

121 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2012

About the author

Margaret Simon is a Mississippi native who married into a Louisiana life. She lives on the Bayou Teche in New Iberia, Louisiana with her husband, Jeff. Their now empty nest once housed three daughters, Maggie, Katherine, and Martha. Margaret has been an elementary school teacher for over 20 years, most recently teaching gifted students in Iberia Parish. She has published poems in the journal The Aurorean, and wrote a chapter about teaching poetry to young children for Women on Poetry published in 2012 by McFarland & Company, Inc. Publishers. In her teaching profession, she has a Masters degree in Gifted Education and certification by the National Boards for Professional Teaching Standards.

Reviews

[Holly Mueller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel so blessed to have become friends with Margaret Simon through the Slice of Life community. She graciously sent me her beautiful young adult/middle grade novel, Blessen. Right away I fell in love with young Blessen, a girl who is trying to figure out her identity, resolve feelings of guilt, and find her way in the world. The sense of place is so strong that the setting becomes a character - the hot and steamy southern Louisiana, Margaret's own state. I was hooked immediately when I found out one of Blessen's dear friends was a chicken, Blue! Blessen experiences loss and discovery throughout the novel, all of which help her blossom and realize how strong love is, and its power over death. Blessen will stay with me for a long time. Thank you, Margaret!

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't help but love Blessen. I cheered when things went well and I was sad when she experienced hurt or disappointment. I even worried about her chicken! Simon does an excellent job developing her and making the reader want to know more. As a mother, I worried when she went on an adventure that might end badly - cant wait to know what happens to Blessen as she grows up.

[Sjbonin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. I fell in love with Blessen. Can't wait to read more from this author.

[Bsmarshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

A compelling story with truly believable characters