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Chronicles from Chateau Moines
September 1970: Scott’s mother has recently died and his father gets the crazy idea to move his family from California to Normandy. Now Scott has to learn to live without his mom while adjusting to France. In his seventh grade class there is only Ibrahim who comes from another country. Scott doesn’t even want to play his guitar anymore. Why does his father think that life will be better so far from home?
Scott has no idea that his arrival is also a challenge to Sylvie. While her best friend is excited to have an American boy at school, Sylvie cannot say one word to Scott. She can’t even write good songs in her notebook anymore. Why is life so different since Scott moved to Château Moines?
Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War protest era and told from the perspectives of twelve-year old Scott and Sylvie, this is a story about loss and friendship, music and peace, and also about secrets.
Scott has no idea that his arrival is also a challenge to Sylvie. While her best friend is excited to have an American boy at school, Sylvie cannot say one word to Scott. She can’t even write good songs in her notebook anymore. Why is life so different since Scott moved to Château Moines?
Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War protest era and told from the perspectives of twelve-year old Scott and Sylvie, this is a story about loss and friendship, music and peace, and also about secrets.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 10, 2014
151 people want to read
About the author
Evelyne Holingue
5 books14 followersEvelyne Holingue was born and raised in France; she graduated from the Sorbonne in Paris. She worked in a publishing company until leaving for the United States in 1990. Evelyne’s work has placed in contests, been published in magazines, and aired on national public radio.
Trapped in Paris is her first young adult novel.
In Chronicles From Château Moines , a Middle Grade novel staged in a small French town in the early 1970s, Evelyne combines American and French cultures via the narratives of an American boy and a French girl. Publishers Weekly wrote that she created “a vivid, multigenerational cast of provincial characters, addressing the simmering anti-immigrant sentiments within the village while evoking the larger political and social climate of the stormy era.”
Evelyne has lived in different parts of the USA. She appreciates and admires the geographical and cultural diversity of the States. However, she keeps a special place for France in her heart.
Through her writing, she always shares her affection for her two homes on earth.
In addition to writing fiction, Evelyne keeps an active bilingual blog where you can learn more about her work and life in general.
Trapped in Paris is her first young adult novel.
In Chronicles From Château Moines , a Middle Grade novel staged in a small French town in the early 1970s, Evelyne combines American and French cultures via the narratives of an American boy and a French girl. Publishers Weekly wrote that she created “a vivid, multigenerational cast of provincial characters, addressing the simmering anti-immigrant sentiments within the village while evoking the larger political and social climate of the stormy era.”
Evelyne has lived in different parts of the USA. She appreciates and admires the geographical and cultural diversity of the States. However, she keeps a special place for France in her heart.
Through her writing, she always shares her affection for her two homes on earth.
In addition to writing fiction, Evelyne keeps an active bilingual blog where you can learn more about her work and life in general.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 12, 2015
Chronicles from Chateau Moines takes place during the 1970's in the fictional town of Chateau Moines, France. Scott, his sister and father have just moved from California looking to separate themselves from the memories of their mothers death. Scott's sister is adjusting well, already making friends with a local girl. Scott is trying to overcome some of the language barriers and makes friends with Ibrahim, an immigrant from Algeria.
Sylvie is a local French girl who lives with her mother, father, and younger sister and is passionate about writing songs in her notebook. She dreams of one day moving away to Paris to sing and write songs. When Scott meets Annie, the best friend of Sylvie, Sylvie's and Annie's friendship is tested. By accepting an invitation to meet up with Scott, Sylvie has skipped out on her best friend and sets off a series of misunderstandings and typical twelve year-old hurt feelings.
Chronicles from Chateau Moines is told in the alternating points of view of Scott and Sylvie, which I think works very well and keeps the story moving along at a nice pace. It's actually very engaging, because you get a look at the village from someone who has just moved there and is trying to learn the language, and then you have Sylvie, who has lived here her whole life. Scott brings the American influences of music, clothing and his views on the Vietnam War and Sylvie is the one who adds French words and phrases to the story, relates village life as well as the customs and foods of France. It was very interesting to see the town and each other through their eyes. Scott seemed more likable to me of the two. He takes the brunt of Sylvie's moodiness and I had a difficult time understanding why she seemed to show such disdain for him. Blaming him for her problems with Annie, while at the same time clearly liking him. Maybe it's just that I've forgotten what it's like to be twelve. Scott on the other hand, had a wonderful love for his mother that really showed in the ways that he tried to honor and remember her.
Before Scott's mother died, she took him to anti war demonstrations protesting the American involvement in the Vietnam War. It isn't central to the story that the reader understand the causes of the Vietnam War, just that Scott has very strong convictions about the war. Which is the reason he wears sandals instead of shoes, because he promised himself he wouldn't until the war was over. Scott holds on to his mothers memory very tightly and utilizes this protest as a means to honor her. This becomes the spark that unites Scott and Sylvie in organizing a Peace Rally in the town of Chateau Moines. Which goes to show the influence that one person can have. I loved the way the town came together around the Peace Rally it highlights both the good and bad sides to other characters from the village.
Chronicles from Chateau Moines draws its inspiration from the cultural, social and historical events from the early 1970's. You can really tell that Holingue did a lot of research, as she cites many bands, songs, singers, and fashion trends and includes references for each at the back of the book. Many cultural icons like Janis Joplin and historical events like the Washington D.C., Peace March and protests to the Vietnam War are also included. I love how it gives you the feel of the time period even if you weren't old enough to recall it and there is a nice balance of both French and American cultural.
Chronicles from Chateau Moines is a beautiful story about friendship, family and grieving the loss of a parent. The story will immerse you in the cultural, social and historical events of the 1970's while touching on the topics of the anti-war movement, and racism. Perfect for someone looking for a middle grade historical fiction set during this time period.
Favorite line: "The street, the sidewalks, and the roofs are coated with snow, and Chateau Moines looks like a fancy cake, iced with white frosting. I feel it impossible not to believe in the hope of peace when everything is white and silent."
A review e-copy was provided by the author for free, for participation in the blog tour hosted by CBB book promotions.
Sylvie is a local French girl who lives with her mother, father, and younger sister and is passionate about writing songs in her notebook. She dreams of one day moving away to Paris to sing and write songs. When Scott meets Annie, the best friend of Sylvie, Sylvie's and Annie's friendship is tested. By accepting an invitation to meet up with Scott, Sylvie has skipped out on her best friend and sets off a series of misunderstandings and typical twelve year-old hurt feelings.
Chronicles from Chateau Moines is told in the alternating points of view of Scott and Sylvie, which I think works very well and keeps the story moving along at a nice pace. It's actually very engaging, because you get a look at the village from someone who has just moved there and is trying to learn the language, and then you have Sylvie, who has lived here her whole life. Scott brings the American influences of music, clothing and his views on the Vietnam War and Sylvie is the one who adds French words and phrases to the story, relates village life as well as the customs and foods of France. It was very interesting to see the town and each other through their eyes. Scott seemed more likable to me of the two. He takes the brunt of Sylvie's moodiness and I had a difficult time understanding why she seemed to show such disdain for him. Blaming him for her problems with Annie, while at the same time clearly liking him. Maybe it's just that I've forgotten what it's like to be twelve. Scott on the other hand, had a wonderful love for his mother that really showed in the ways that he tried to honor and remember her.
Before Scott's mother died, she took him to anti war demonstrations protesting the American involvement in the Vietnam War. It isn't central to the story that the reader understand the causes of the Vietnam War, just that Scott has very strong convictions about the war. Which is the reason he wears sandals instead of shoes, because he promised himself he wouldn't until the war was over. Scott holds on to his mothers memory very tightly and utilizes this protest as a means to honor her. This becomes the spark that unites Scott and Sylvie in organizing a Peace Rally in the town of Chateau Moines. Which goes to show the influence that one person can have. I loved the way the town came together around the Peace Rally it highlights both the good and bad sides to other characters from the village.
Chronicles from Chateau Moines draws its inspiration from the cultural, social and historical events from the early 1970's. You can really tell that Holingue did a lot of research, as she cites many bands, songs, singers, and fashion trends and includes references for each at the back of the book. Many cultural icons like Janis Joplin and historical events like the Washington D.C., Peace March and protests to the Vietnam War are also included. I love how it gives you the feel of the time period even if you weren't old enough to recall it and there is a nice balance of both French and American cultural.
Chronicles from Chateau Moines is a beautiful story about friendship, family and grieving the loss of a parent. The story will immerse you in the cultural, social and historical events of the 1970's while touching on the topics of the anti-war movement, and racism. Perfect for someone looking for a middle grade historical fiction set during this time period.
Favorite line: "The street, the sidewalks, and the roofs are coated with snow, and Chateau Moines looks like a fancy cake, iced with white frosting. I feel it impossible not to believe in the hope of peace when everything is white and silent."
A review e-copy was provided by the author for free, for participation in the blog tour hosted by CBB book promotions.
September 9, 2015
Chronicles from Château Moines is a very well written YA novel that can be enjoyed by adult readers who appreciate recognizable challenges and wonderfully drawn characters, all in an interesting place at an interesting time: Normandy in 1970.
Several months after the death of his wife from cancer, Doug Sweet moves with his two children, Scott and Stacey, from Santa Monica, California, to Château Moines, a small town in Normandy. It's the start of a new school year. Since their late mother was French, both kids speak enough French to get along.
Stacey, an outgoing eight-year-old, thrives. Scott, who's twelve, misses his old life, his friends, and especially his mother. His classmates tease him for his accent. And there's this girl in his class, Sylvie . . .
I know, I know: This is where plenty of YA and other novels go off the rails. Chronicles doesn't. It's narrated in alternate chapters by Scott and Sylvie, so the reader comes to know both of them well and to understand why each one is both drawn to and put off by the other. Scott's presence disrupts Sylvie's best-friendship with Annie, who's interested in the new boy too. Holingue handles this especially well, with the silences, misunderstandings, and occasional outbursts that usually accompany change.
But the disruption in Château Moines isn't just about three middle-school kids. The arrival of the Americans unsettles the whole town, which is already dealing -- not all that well -- with the presence of Algerian immigrants, who live in an almost separate world on the town's outskirts. The silences, misunderstandings, and outbursts that trouble the young people's relationships are echoed and amplified on the civic level.
How all this works out I'll leave you to discover for yourself.
Though I definitely recommend the novel, I do have a couple of reservations. Keep in mind that I'm not part of the book's target audience; in fact, in 1970 I was a few years older than the Chronicles protagonists, living on the U.S. East Coast and very involved in the movement against the Vietnam War. Scott's passionate opposition to that war is a key element of the plot, apparently because the older brother of a California friend was seriously wounded in Vietnam. For me that alone wasn't enough to account for the huge risks Scott takes for the cause.
Brief reference is made to French involvement in Indochina, but the glaring silence for me concerned a different and more recent war: the one between France and Algeria, which ended in 1962. Ibrahim, Scott and Sylvie's classmate, and his family are from Algeria. Ibrahim provides a window into the immigrants' world, but the war never comes up. Was it a factor in their emigration? How do the townsfolk feel about this constant reminder of a recent military defeat? And another character, the gruff old colonel, knows his wars. With U.S. involvement in Vietnam front and center, I kept waiting for him to mention Dienbienphu or "Algérie française," but he never did.
These omissions probably won't trouble YA readers, or most adults either. This is a fine novel nonetheless, but for those aware of the history a little suspension of disbelief is advised.
Several months after the death of his wife from cancer, Doug Sweet moves with his two children, Scott and Stacey, from Santa Monica, California, to Château Moines, a small town in Normandy. It's the start of a new school year. Since their late mother was French, both kids speak enough French to get along.
Stacey, an outgoing eight-year-old, thrives. Scott, who's twelve, misses his old life, his friends, and especially his mother. His classmates tease him for his accent. And there's this girl in his class, Sylvie . . .
I know, I know: This is where plenty of YA and other novels go off the rails. Chronicles doesn't. It's narrated in alternate chapters by Scott and Sylvie, so the reader comes to know both of them well and to understand why each one is both drawn to and put off by the other. Scott's presence disrupts Sylvie's best-friendship with Annie, who's interested in the new boy too. Holingue handles this especially well, with the silences, misunderstandings, and occasional outbursts that usually accompany change.
But the disruption in Château Moines isn't just about three middle-school kids. The arrival of the Americans unsettles the whole town, which is already dealing -- not all that well -- with the presence of Algerian immigrants, who live in an almost separate world on the town's outskirts. The silences, misunderstandings, and outbursts that trouble the young people's relationships are echoed and amplified on the civic level.
How all this works out I'll leave you to discover for yourself.
Though I definitely recommend the novel, I do have a couple of reservations. Keep in mind that I'm not part of the book's target audience; in fact, in 1970 I was a few years older than the Chronicles protagonists, living on the U.S. East Coast and very involved in the movement against the Vietnam War. Scott's passionate opposition to that war is a key element of the plot, apparently because the older brother of a California friend was seriously wounded in Vietnam. For me that alone wasn't enough to account for the huge risks Scott takes for the cause.
Brief reference is made to French involvement in Indochina, but the glaring silence for me concerned a different and more recent war: the one between France and Algeria, which ended in 1962. Ibrahim, Scott and Sylvie's classmate, and his family are from Algeria. Ibrahim provides a window into the immigrants' world, but the war never comes up. Was it a factor in their emigration? How do the townsfolk feel about this constant reminder of a recent military defeat? And another character, the gruff old colonel, knows his wars. With U.S. involvement in Vietnam front and center, I kept waiting for him to mention Dienbienphu or "Algérie française," but he never did.
These omissions probably won't trouble YA readers, or most adults either. This is a fine novel nonetheless, but for those aware of the history a little suspension of disbelief is advised.
March 5, 2015
I always try to capture a book by one word… what feeling does it leave me with when I’m done reading, or my overall impression. For me, this book is summed up as memorable.
Starting from the cover, I was hooked. The simplistic illustration of a quaint village and the whimsical music notes around the title drew me in. Instantly I had an idea about what this book was going to be about as well as a desire to read it.
After I got over the brilliant cover, the story itself had me hooked. I found the backdrop of the social and political scene of the 70's interesting. Having been born after that, a lot of what I know about that decade comes from my hearsay or textbooks. The author did a great job of showing us the conflicts and really giving this generation a new feel. I finished feeling like I knew that time better. There's something to say for that... Learning new cultures and history without knowing you're learning something is hard to do, and this author does it seamlessly. From the culture to the history, I felt like I was living there. Excellently done!
Beyond the setting though… The voice in this novel is spot on. Some might say too spot on in some cases. ha! A twelve year old certainly goes through a roller coaster of emotions… and when the story is told from the perspective of two different twelve years olds, you’re in for a wild ride. The alternating point of views provided a depth to the characters I wasn’t expecting, and provides appeal to both genders.
There is a refreshing spotlight on sadness, honesty and strength. This isn't a fast paced action filled story. This is a novel with heart…
And the ending... All I can say is perfect!
I recommend this book for middle grade readers, especially those who prefer realistic/contemporary fiction.
Starting from the cover, I was hooked. The simplistic illustration of a quaint village and the whimsical music notes around the title drew me in. Instantly I had an idea about what this book was going to be about as well as a desire to read it.
After I got over the brilliant cover, the story itself had me hooked. I found the backdrop of the social and political scene of the 70's interesting. Having been born after that, a lot of what I know about that decade comes from my hearsay or textbooks. The author did a great job of showing us the conflicts and really giving this generation a new feel. I finished feeling like I knew that time better. There's something to say for that... Learning new cultures and history without knowing you're learning something is hard to do, and this author does it seamlessly. From the culture to the history, I felt like I was living there. Excellently done!
Beyond the setting though… The voice in this novel is spot on. Some might say too spot on in some cases. ha! A twelve year old certainly goes through a roller coaster of emotions… and when the story is told from the perspective of two different twelve years olds, you’re in for a wild ride. The alternating point of views provided a depth to the characters I wasn’t expecting, and provides appeal to both genders.
There is a refreshing spotlight on sadness, honesty and strength. This isn't a fast paced action filled story. This is a novel with heart…
And the ending... All I can say is perfect!
I recommend this book for middle grade readers, especially those who prefer realistic/contemporary fiction.
October 3, 2015
This novel is steeped in cultural references to the early 70's with it's Levi's and "hang ten" shirts, and the music of Janis Joplin, Joan Baez and the Beatles, (okay late 60's to early 70's) and of course, the Vietnam War. If you are a fan of this era and especially this music as the story has music central to it's theme, then you will really enjoy this novel. I'm not a fan of the era. Maybe because I grew up during that time period, but I was hardly aware of the Vietnam war or music even. I was too young. I don't know why, but the 70's are not my favorite time in music, history, culture etc.
But, despite the novel being set during this time period, the universal themes of loss, feeling alone in a crowd, prejudice and belonging are something I could relate to, no matter what. The story is told in alternating chapters between Sylvie, a French 12 yr old aspiring singer/songwriter native to Chateau Moines and Scott, a 12 yr old transplanted Californian who plays the guitar. Music is their universal language despite the fact that Sylvie has never told anyone, even her best friend Annie that she writes songs. It's natural that Scott and Sylvie become friends as they have music in common but because Annie has no idea of Sylvie's interest in music, Scott comes between them.
Scott is also fighting the loss of his French mother to cancer just months ago. It was her desire that they move to France after her death, but he just can't get the hang of things. While he appears to be some kind of exotic delicacy to the French girls there, he just feels like a fish out of water. He's thousands of miles from his beloved beach in Santa Monica and a million from his mother. He doesn't know if the locals are making fun of him. He can't seem to catch on to the customs and the hundreds of ways they greet each other and he doesn't understand what's going on with his dad and the librarian. So, he decides to organize a peace rally. And he asks his class to join. It isn't unanimous, in the class nor in the town. But it does bring about some interesting changes in everyone including Scott, Sylvie and Annie.
The book isn't fast paced so take your time reading it. I read it over the course of a week. It gave me a lot of time to reflect on the characters and their motivations. It's been a very long time since I was 12, but I do remember when I was young everything was so, so important. And immediate. I reacted to everything so I think the author really got the characters right. However, I did not have teachers like Monsieur Leroy. Nor did I have a town that I could wander the streets freely. Chateau Moines sounds like a really idyllic place to grow up, even if it is fictional and has it's fair share of problems. The castle it is named after, well who wouldn't love a castle to explore and then the ancient forests right outside the city to get lost in or have a picnic in. And the descriptions of the bakeries and the Rue Principale with it's shops and the market. Makes me want to live in any city in France! And eat!
I recommend this novel to middle grade readers and up. It is realistic fiction and for those who have an interest in the 70's, the Vietnam War, a 12 yr old trying to assimilate himself in France and a family living with loss. And 12 yr olds on the brink of discovering the real world. Enjoy!
But, despite the novel being set during this time period, the universal themes of loss, feeling alone in a crowd, prejudice and belonging are something I could relate to, no matter what. The story is told in alternating chapters between Sylvie, a French 12 yr old aspiring singer/songwriter native to Chateau Moines and Scott, a 12 yr old transplanted Californian who plays the guitar. Music is their universal language despite the fact that Sylvie has never told anyone, even her best friend Annie that she writes songs. It's natural that Scott and Sylvie become friends as they have music in common but because Annie has no idea of Sylvie's interest in music, Scott comes between them.
Scott is also fighting the loss of his French mother to cancer just months ago. It was her desire that they move to France after her death, but he just can't get the hang of things. While he appears to be some kind of exotic delicacy to the French girls there, he just feels like a fish out of water. He's thousands of miles from his beloved beach in Santa Monica and a million from his mother. He doesn't know if the locals are making fun of him. He can't seem to catch on to the customs and the hundreds of ways they greet each other and he doesn't understand what's going on with his dad and the librarian. So, he decides to organize a peace rally. And he asks his class to join. It isn't unanimous, in the class nor in the town. But it does bring about some interesting changes in everyone including Scott, Sylvie and Annie.
The book isn't fast paced so take your time reading it. I read it over the course of a week. It gave me a lot of time to reflect on the characters and their motivations. It's been a very long time since I was 12, but I do remember when I was young everything was so, so important. And immediate. I reacted to everything so I think the author really got the characters right. However, I did not have teachers like Monsieur Leroy. Nor did I have a town that I could wander the streets freely. Chateau Moines sounds like a really idyllic place to grow up, even if it is fictional and has it's fair share of problems. The castle it is named after, well who wouldn't love a castle to explore and then the ancient forests right outside the city to get lost in or have a picnic in. And the descriptions of the bakeries and the Rue Principale with it's shops and the market. Makes me want to live in any city in France! And eat!
I recommend this novel to middle grade readers and up. It is realistic fiction and for those who have an interest in the 70's, the Vietnam War, a 12 yr old trying to assimilate himself in France and a family living with loss. And 12 yr olds on the brink of discovering the real world. Enjoy!
January 8, 2015
Chronicles from Chateau Moines by Evelyne Holingue is a book about a French girl and an American boy and is set in a village in France in 1970. It’s a book about peace, family and friends. It’s very 70’s feeling with Scott, the American boy, who is determined to spread the word of peace. We also get a lot of the 70’s slang and style. It brings a unique feel to the book, and is eye opening to those who didn’t live through the 70’s and haven’t experienced it for themselves. It really brought the time period alive even though it was in France and not in an American city or somewhere where peace rally’s were taking place regularly.
Sylvie is the French girl that narrates every other chapter. She’s a closet songwriter and singer. No one knows of it. She’s frustrated with her family and friends and feels trapped in her little town.
Sylvie and Scott are 12 and the age came across very strongly in the way the author brought to life their emotions. At times both were a bit extreme in their feelings but this is how it is when you’re 12. The simplest things are the biggest deal. Dealing with annoying parents is a huge hassle and downer. Dealing with change, like Scott is, is also difficult. Not only has he only just lost his mother but they also moved to a new country where he has to learn the language (better) and discover new customs, foods, etc. So while at times I wanted to say ‘brat’ at both of them at the end of the day I ‘got it’. I remember being 12 and this really nails it.
Sylvie and Scott aren’t always being downers though. They work together well and are able to express themselves to each other unlike they are with anyone else. They even organize their own peace rally.
This book isn’t a fast paced novel. It kind of meanders, dealing with every day issues like family, friends and school. However, the book really brings out each thing extremely well and while it deals with a lot of things it’s never overwhelming and it flows together well. The descriptions of the town/village and the people in it are done well. In fact there are a lot of secondary characters that play minor roles that are brought to life quite well. We also get a lot of French but it’s done in a way we don’t need to know what it means as it’s contextual or explained. It adds that authentic feel. Towards the end we get a bit more action and the plot speeds up as some secrets are uncovered and and other things go down.
In the end I found myself tearing up at the simplest things. The beauty of people coming together. Of the town finding a voice together and finding their own beat. Of the connections between people. I also have to comment about the end where the author talks about the music that is in the book as well as other important things that happened in that time period. This is a great book for upper middle grade kids because it will teach them stuff and they won’t even know they are learning. They will briefly be immersed in a small town in France in the 1970 and they soak it up and come out a different person. I highly recommend!
Sylvie is the French girl that narrates every other chapter. She’s a closet songwriter and singer. No one knows of it. She’s frustrated with her family and friends and feels trapped in her little town.
Sylvie and Scott are 12 and the age came across very strongly in the way the author brought to life their emotions. At times both were a bit extreme in their feelings but this is how it is when you’re 12. The simplest things are the biggest deal. Dealing with annoying parents is a huge hassle and downer. Dealing with change, like Scott is, is also difficult. Not only has he only just lost his mother but they also moved to a new country where he has to learn the language (better) and discover new customs, foods, etc. So while at times I wanted to say ‘brat’ at both of them at the end of the day I ‘got it’. I remember being 12 and this really nails it.
Sylvie and Scott aren’t always being downers though. They work together well and are able to express themselves to each other unlike they are with anyone else. They even organize their own peace rally.
This book isn’t a fast paced novel. It kind of meanders, dealing with every day issues like family, friends and school. However, the book really brings out each thing extremely well and while it deals with a lot of things it’s never overwhelming and it flows together well. The descriptions of the town/village and the people in it are done well. In fact there are a lot of secondary characters that play minor roles that are brought to life quite well. We also get a lot of French but it’s done in a way we don’t need to know what it means as it’s contextual or explained. It adds that authentic feel. Towards the end we get a bit more action and the plot speeds up as some secrets are uncovered and and other things go down.
In the end I found myself tearing up at the simplest things. The beauty of people coming together. Of the town finding a voice together and finding their own beat. Of the connections between people. I also have to comment about the end where the author talks about the music that is in the book as well as other important things that happened in that time period. This is a great book for upper middle grade kids because it will teach them stuff and they won’t even know they are learning. They will briefly be immersed in a small town in France in the 1970 and they soak it up and come out a different person. I highly recommend!
March 2, 2015
3.5 stars
I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Looking for a good book for a middle grade student? Try Chronicles from Chateau Moines. There isn't any foul language or inappropriate situations, only an innocent kiss at the end. It blends cultures together with anti-war and anti-racism themes. Even when there is conflict within the book, the characters aim to restore the peace.
After the death of his mother, Scott Sweet moves to Chateau Moines, France with his sister and father. While there he makes new friends and together they plan a protest for the Vietnam War. Sylvie, on the other hand, has to chose between her friend who likes Scott, or Scott himself. Since it is told through her point of view as well, of course she has to choose the new American boy.
Sylvie is my least favorite character in the book. She was very moody for more than half of the book. She kept fighting her crush of Scott because her friend said she liked him first. When she ditched her friend to meet with Scott, I thought she'd loosen up and become less of a stick in the mud. That didn't happen. Even when around Scott, she doesn't try to get very close to him. At times the reminder of him puts her in a bad mood around her friends and family. The only way she opens up about her feelings is through her writing. Throughout the book, readers see the poems/lyrics she writes.
Scott, on the other hand, is a bit strong willed--after all he won't wear socks until the war is over. He isn't as moody as Sylvie. He is the peacekeeper in the book. He befriends an Arabian boy, Ibrahim, and tries to be friends with Sylvie--if she will let him. Yes, Scott makes a false assumption in the book, but when he learns the truth, he quickly forgets the grudge he had against a certain adult character. He is a good leader.
In the end, the book closes with no loose ends. There is a nice twist that interconnects all of the characters. Astute readers will be able to figure out what this revelation is about half way through the book. It makes for a very happy ending.
Since the setting is in France, author Evelyne Holingue incorporates some French language in the book. Most of the French words/phrases are translated. Those that aren't can easily be deciphered with the context clues. This is one aspect of the book I really enjoyed her including. I'm glad the language wasn't all in English.
The story is told over the course of a school year in 1970-1971. Historical events are brought up in the book. Holingue also incorporates music all throughout. Since Scott plays guitar and Sylvie sings, music from the era is cited. Holingue lists the songs at the end of the book along with the album and year published. You'll definitely want to check it out.
I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Looking for a good book for a middle grade student? Try Chronicles from Chateau Moines. There isn't any foul language or inappropriate situations, only an innocent kiss at the end. It blends cultures together with anti-war and anti-racism themes. Even when there is conflict within the book, the characters aim to restore the peace.
After the death of his mother, Scott Sweet moves to Chateau Moines, France with his sister and father. While there he makes new friends and together they plan a protest for the Vietnam War. Sylvie, on the other hand, has to chose between her friend who likes Scott, or Scott himself. Since it is told through her point of view as well, of course she has to choose the new American boy.
Sylvie is my least favorite character in the book. She was very moody for more than half of the book. She kept fighting her crush of Scott because her friend said she liked him first. When she ditched her friend to meet with Scott, I thought she'd loosen up and become less of a stick in the mud. That didn't happen. Even when around Scott, she doesn't try to get very close to him. At times the reminder of him puts her in a bad mood around her friends and family. The only way she opens up about her feelings is through her writing. Throughout the book, readers see the poems/lyrics she writes.
Scott, on the other hand, is a bit strong willed--after all he won't wear socks until the war is over. He isn't as moody as Sylvie. He is the peacekeeper in the book. He befriends an Arabian boy, Ibrahim, and tries to be friends with Sylvie--if she will let him. Yes, Scott makes a false assumption in the book, but when he learns the truth, he quickly forgets the grudge he had against a certain adult character. He is a good leader.
In the end, the book closes with no loose ends. There is a nice twist that interconnects all of the characters. Astute readers will be able to figure out what this revelation is about half way through the book. It makes for a very happy ending.
Since the setting is in France, author Evelyne Holingue incorporates some French language in the book. Most of the French words/phrases are translated. Those that aren't can easily be deciphered with the context clues. This is one aspect of the book I really enjoyed her including. I'm glad the language wasn't all in English.
The story is told over the course of a school year in 1970-1971. Historical events are brought up in the book. Holingue also incorporates music all throughout. Since Scott plays guitar and Sylvie sings, music from the era is cited. Holingue lists the songs at the end of the book along with the album and year published. You'll definitely want to check it out.
March 24, 2015
Chronicles from Château Moines is a story about a group of kids learning to get along in their simple world that’s made up of school, friends and family.
The chapters alternate between the first-person narratives of the two main characters: Sylvie, a girl born and raised in Château Moines, who is shy and writes songs that she hides from the world; and Scott, a boy just moved to the town after losing his mum to cancer, who is trying to work out a way to deal with his new life. But Scott’s arrival causes an uproar in the small town of Château Moines, where the American and his family are seen as cool and exotic by some, and foreign and unwelcome by others. Worse than that, the girls in Scott’s new class immediately take a shine to him – and just like that, a wedge is driven between Sylvie and her best friend.
Holingue has done a good job in portraying her characters as regular people and I was particularly pleased with her rendering of the twelve-year-old kids; where I would have been tempted to have them act more logically or sensibly, thinking things through to understand one another’s points of view instead of rushing off or falling out, she has them act like children – that is, unsure, self-centred and a little bit petty. Not to an annoying degree, but just enough to make them believable – for example, Sylvie arguing with a friend and not just speaking with her to sort it out, or Scott getting unreasonably upset with his dad for becoming close friends with a new woman.
At the beginning, Sylvie’s tendency to mention in her narrative the lyrics that she comes up with through the day annoyed me a little. Man, I thought, that’s pretty lame. But then it occurred to me that yes, of course it is, because pretty much all twelve-year-old kids would come up with lyrics that are lame – lord knows I used to. After a few chapters the lyrics just became an accepted part of Sylvie’s character, something that she constantly does and thinks about. And that was the only part of the book that I disliked for even a moment.
Overall, I really liked Chronicles from Château Moines. It’s easy to read and it more or less lays its cards out on the table for you at every turn, which makes it a simple read for older readers, although not in a bad way – I still enjoyed the portrayal of the characters and their loves and fears.
I think that this is in particular a good book for children aged eleven to fifteen, since they would be able to relate to the main characters and their problems – and maybe even pick up a few French phrases along the way!
I was sent a copy of this book as part of a promotional blog tour – see the full post at The Little Crocodile
The chapters alternate between the first-person narratives of the two main characters: Sylvie, a girl born and raised in Château Moines, who is shy and writes songs that she hides from the world; and Scott, a boy just moved to the town after losing his mum to cancer, who is trying to work out a way to deal with his new life. But Scott’s arrival causes an uproar in the small town of Château Moines, where the American and his family are seen as cool and exotic by some, and foreign and unwelcome by others. Worse than that, the girls in Scott’s new class immediately take a shine to him – and just like that, a wedge is driven between Sylvie and her best friend.
Holingue has done a good job in portraying her characters as regular people and I was particularly pleased with her rendering of the twelve-year-old kids; where I would have been tempted to have them act more logically or sensibly, thinking things through to understand one another’s points of view instead of rushing off or falling out, she has them act like children – that is, unsure, self-centred and a little bit petty. Not to an annoying degree, but just enough to make them believable – for example, Sylvie arguing with a friend and not just speaking with her to sort it out, or Scott getting unreasonably upset with his dad for becoming close friends with a new woman.
At the beginning, Sylvie’s tendency to mention in her narrative the lyrics that she comes up with through the day annoyed me a little. Man, I thought, that’s pretty lame. But then it occurred to me that yes, of course it is, because pretty much all twelve-year-old kids would come up with lyrics that are lame – lord knows I used to. After a few chapters the lyrics just became an accepted part of Sylvie’s character, something that she constantly does and thinks about. And that was the only part of the book that I disliked for even a moment.
Overall, I really liked Chronicles from Château Moines. It’s easy to read and it more or less lays its cards out on the table for you at every turn, which makes it a simple read for older readers, although not in a bad way – I still enjoyed the portrayal of the characters and their loves and fears.
I think that this is in particular a good book for children aged eleven to fifteen, since they would be able to relate to the main characters and their problems – and maybe even pick up a few French phrases along the way!
I was sent a copy of this book as part of a promotional blog tour – see the full post at The Little Crocodile
October 18, 2014
This novel is from the writer of "Trapped in Paris," which I liked very much. Although this novel is not a thriller, it's another example of Ms. Holingue's fine writing, great description, and use of a bilingual/bicultural (English/French) setting. "Chronicles," is part of Kindle Unlimited.
Chronicles from Château Moines is a novel which delves into the issues of grief, family, and first love from the perspective of a young boy, Scott, whose mother recently died. His father uproots the family and moves to a small town in France, where Scott feels out of place, lonely and questions why his father moved him from his friends in California, where he was involved in peaceful protests against the Vietnam War. Like the war, his whole world is uprooted and changed.
The story starts on September 14, 1970 on the first day of school and seventh grade, in Château Moines. Scott is trying to find his place in a new country, learn the language, make sense of the war and the family move. His first friend is Ibrahim, who is also an outsider, from Algeria. Stacie, is a young French teenaged girl who is taken by his confidence, his commitment to protesting the war, and Scott's belief in her abilities and dreams.
The backdrop is during the social and historical backgrounds of the early ‘70s in the USA and France so there are instances of French language, culture, and politics. Told in the alternating viewpoints (by chapter), Scott and Stacie give us a glimpse into their struggle with social and personal change. There is much insight given in narrative which fleshes out the characters. The vividness of the details about the town, shop owners, and buildings adds to an enriching read.
Chateau Moines is appropriate for middle grade and early young adult ages. The novel can give teens a background in which to discuss the Vietnam War with adults who lived during this era or within a school setting where the VW is examined. The themes will resonate with youth and adults.
Chronicles from Château Moines is a novel which delves into the issues of grief, family, and first love from the perspective of a young boy, Scott, whose mother recently died. His father uproots the family and moves to a small town in France, where Scott feels out of place, lonely and questions why his father moved him from his friends in California, where he was involved in peaceful protests against the Vietnam War. Like the war, his whole world is uprooted and changed.
The story starts on September 14, 1970 on the first day of school and seventh grade, in Château Moines. Scott is trying to find his place in a new country, learn the language, make sense of the war and the family move. His first friend is Ibrahim, who is also an outsider, from Algeria. Stacie, is a young French teenaged girl who is taken by his confidence, his commitment to protesting the war, and Scott's belief in her abilities and dreams.
The backdrop is during the social and historical backgrounds of the early ‘70s in the USA and France so there are instances of French language, culture, and politics. Told in the alternating viewpoints (by chapter), Scott and Stacie give us a glimpse into their struggle with social and personal change. There is much insight given in narrative which fleshes out the characters. The vividness of the details about the town, shop owners, and buildings adds to an enriching read.
Chateau Moines is appropriate for middle grade and early young adult ages. The novel can give teens a background in which to discuss the Vietnam War with adults who lived during this era or within a school setting where the VW is examined. The themes will resonate with youth and adults.
March 13, 2015
https://booksenses.wordpress.com/2015...
Chronicles From Chateau Moines by Evelyn Holingue was one of the best reads. I jumped on the chance because I love the French language and even though the book is not all in French, just a little, I liked to learn about the French country and this small town.
It was easy to fall in love with the characters. Scott and his humor always cheered me up and his relationship with his dad, sister, and especially Sylvie made me gush 24/7. He was awkward, but sweet and Evelyn did a great job developing him and making him awesome. Sylvie was mostly the opposite of Scott, except their names start with the same letter. Sylvie was quiet and shy , but it really balanced out the whole adventure of the story.
I was blown away by the diversity in one small and compact town. It felt like I was visiting different places, with the different personalities. However, I was still in Chateau Moines.
This work of fiction was a true work of art. The history found through out the pages from the Vietnam War to the Peace Marches was phenomenal. I probably learned more about this point in time and remembered it than I do in an actually history text book. Writing about history in a way like Evelyn did should be often. It really breaks it down in a fun and interesting way that keeps you on your feet wanting more.
Chronicles From Chateau Moines by Evelyn Holingue was one of the best reads. I jumped on the chance because I love the French language and even though the book is not all in French, just a little, I liked to learn about the French country and this small town.
It was easy to fall in love with the characters. Scott and his humor always cheered me up and his relationship with his dad, sister, and especially Sylvie made me gush 24/7. He was awkward, but sweet and Evelyn did a great job developing him and making him awesome. Sylvie was mostly the opposite of Scott, except their names start with the same letter. Sylvie was quiet and shy , but it really balanced out the whole adventure of the story.
I was blown away by the diversity in one small and compact town. It felt like I was visiting different places, with the different personalities. However, I was still in Chateau Moines.
This work of fiction was a true work of art. The history found through out the pages from the Vietnam War to the Peace Marches was phenomenal. I probably learned more about this point in time and remembered it than I do in an actually history text book. Writing about history in a way like Evelyn did should be often. It really breaks it down in a fun and interesting way that keeps you on your feet wanting more.
March 4, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not the biggest historical fiction reader, but lately I have found myself gravitating towards a lot more frequently. And like I have said many times, I love reviewing children's books, since I have three, two of whom are already reading.
My son is on a middle grade reading level, and my daughter, although she is younger, is almost on a middle grade reading level. I don't think this would appeal to my son as much as it would my daughter. However, because of her age, and the French dialogue, I'd give her a few years before she's ready to read it. Other than that, if you have an older middle grade reader who enjoys historical fiction, this is a great book for you.
I really enjoyed the storyline and the characters, especially Scott. Having to move after losing your mother is hard enough, but to a new country? That's really tough. Sylvie was a little much at times, but it wasn't too bad. The author could have written this same story in present day, but I think it was more meaningful to the story that she set it in the time period that she did.
And I loved all the musical references (Janis Joplin!) and how the author incorporated that into the story. Music and books are my two favorite things.
I give this book 4.5 stars!
I'm not the biggest historical fiction reader, but lately I have found myself gravitating towards a lot more frequently. And like I have said many times, I love reviewing children's books, since I have three, two of whom are already reading.
My son is on a middle grade reading level, and my daughter, although she is younger, is almost on a middle grade reading level. I don't think this would appeal to my son as much as it would my daughter. However, because of her age, and the French dialogue, I'd give her a few years before she's ready to read it. Other than that, if you have an older middle grade reader who enjoys historical fiction, this is a great book for you.
I really enjoyed the storyline and the characters, especially Scott. Having to move after losing your mother is hard enough, but to a new country? That's really tough. Sylvie was a little much at times, but it wasn't too bad. The author could have written this same story in present day, but I think it was more meaningful to the story that she set it in the time period that she did.
And I loved all the musical references (Janis Joplin!) and how the author incorporated that into the story. Music and books are my two favorite things.
I give this book 4.5 stars!
March 16, 2015
This is a very sweet book. I love how the two young main characters both take over the narration, offering glimpses into cultural differences. It's a quiet story that explores important MG themes, like fitting in and understanding family ties. Although there are a few dramatic moments interspersed in the story (which resolve easily), the tale as a whole is more a novel to savor slowly.
I had a few tiny issues with the storyline. There were things Scott thought or said which didn't seem to quite fit an American mindset. I also had slight misgivings about how easily Sylvie followed his lead (e.g. she would run out in the rain just to meet him).
Despite these minor flaws, I really liked the book. I loved how Holingue featured The Vietnam War in this tale. Also, I appreciate how she highlighted the idea of community and the ability connect across cultures. A highly recommended read for young kids, as they figure out friendships, relationships, and the world around them.
I had a few tiny issues with the storyline. There were things Scott thought or said which didn't seem to quite fit an American mindset. I also had slight misgivings about how easily Sylvie followed his lead (e.g. she would run out in the rain just to meet him).
Despite these minor flaws, I really liked the book. I loved how Holingue featured The Vietnam War in this tale. Also, I appreciate how she highlighted the idea of community and the ability connect across cultures. A highly recommended read for young kids, as they figure out friendships, relationships, and the world around them.
September 25, 2015
Evelyne Holingue has created, or re-created, a beautiful world in which children are able to find their own means of expressing themselves, begin to understand greater issues and complexities in their lives, and find meaning where they felt none had existed. First love, the destructive power of jealousy, the importance of communication, and the building blocks of courage are all included in an immersive experience the duration of a typical school year (or 300 pages). You might need your kid to already be a reader to get them involved in this story as I discussed in the longer blog post, but once you get them involved, the back and forth between the two characters is quickly engaging and makes those pages turn.
July 23, 2015
A well written YA novel set in France. An American boy and his father move to France after his mother dies. I enjoyed Holingue's descriptive writing, and her use of music throughout the storyline. Set in the 1970's, Scott and Sylvie alternate narration, but this does not make the story confusing. Both characters are likable. The background of France and the Vietnam War, and the struggles that the characters are going through make this a good read for adults as well as young adults.
***a pdf copy of this novel was received from the author in exchange for a fair review.****
***a pdf copy of this novel was received from the author in exchange for a fair review.****
August 16, 2015
Middle school is complicated enough without nosy little sisters, moving to a new country, relationship troubles with best friends, grief, dealing with parents, war and peace. 'Chronicles from Chateau Moines' is a sweet novel of growing up learning to navagate a complicated world.
My copy was a gift from Goodreads First Reads.
My copy was a gift from Goodreads First Reads.
January 28, 2016
This book had a very unique setting for a YA novel (France in the 1970's). The musical homages were a trip. There was a little lost in translation at times, with adolescent misunderstandings making it difficult for the characters to navigate their feelings and for readers to understand their angst, but, all-in-all, a solid story.
November 11, 2014
Fun story of a boy, in 1970, who loses his mother. His father moves him to France. Fun story of his adventures.
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