What do you think?
Rate this book
Pictures of Hollis Woods
Pictures of Hollis Woods
176 pages, Paperback
First published August 28, 2002
574 people are currently reading
12038 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Reilly Giff
213 books466 followersPatricia Reilly Giff was the author of many beloved books for children, including the Kids of the Polk Street School books, the Friends and Amigos books, and the Polka Dot Private Eye books. Several of her novels for older readers have been chosen as ALA-ALSC Notable Books and ALA-YALSA Best Books for Young Adults. They include The Gift of the Pirate Queen; All the Way Home; Water Street; Nory Ryan's Song, a Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Golden Kite Honor Book for Fiction; and the Newbery Honor Books Lily's Crossing and Pictures of Hollis Woods. Lily's Crossing was also chosen as a Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Book.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,403 reviews
September 3, 2016
When I finished reading this book I actually gave a little yell of happiness. I knew there was a good reason why I wanted to re-read this book. I had read it a couple years back and wanted to know for sure why I had liked it so much the first time around.
The book touches on what is most important in life and we are shown this by a girl named Hollis Woods. (btw I thought the name was pretty unique) Hollis has been toted around from foster home to foster home. She is good at running away and pushing people away. Things change though when she is given to the Regans for one summer.
I totally fell in love with the Regans. They are so perfect for Hollis. Steven (the son of the Regans) is the epitome of what a brother should and could be.
The book is set up between the time she spends with Josie (her newest foster parent, and a rich character in the story), and the time she spent that summer with the Regans. There is a huge event that happens during that summer which is witheld from the reader, but slowly but surely it is revealed to us. I was still anticipating what would happen to Hollis even though I already knew what happened. An extremely talented author can do that.
Hollis's drawings came to life to me and I could actually see in my mind how real her art was. I was also glad that they mentioned food a lot in the book. Too many books leave that important part of life out. I genuinely was happy for Hollis like she was a real person, but then I thought to myself that is what makes this story so grand; Hollis could be a real little girl and this could actually happen for her.
Even though this book is only 160 odd pages it packs a big punch. The author waste no words and gets the message across clearly that we all just want to belong.
The book touches on what is most important in life and we are shown this by a girl named Hollis Woods. (btw I thought the name was pretty unique) Hollis has been toted around from foster home to foster home. She is good at running away and pushing people away. Things change though when she is given to the Regans for one summer.
I totally fell in love with the Regans. They are so perfect for Hollis. Steven (the son of the Regans) is the epitome of what a brother should and could be.
The book is set up between the time she spends with Josie (her newest foster parent, and a rich character in the story), and the time she spent that summer with the Regans. There is a huge event that happens during that summer which is witheld from the reader, but slowly but surely it is revealed to us. I was still anticipating what would happen to Hollis even though I already knew what happened. An extremely talented author can do that.
Hollis's drawings came to life to me and I could actually see in my mind how real her art was. I was also glad that they mentioned food a lot in the book. Too many books leave that important part of life out. I genuinely was happy for Hollis like she was a real person, but then I thought to myself that is what makes this story so grand; Hollis could be a real little girl and this could actually happen for her.
Even though this book is only 160 odd pages it packs a big punch. The author waste no words and gets the message across clearly that we all just want to belong.
March 9, 2019
The story opens with a young girl in foster care. She is asked to do a 'W' picture at school. One girl does a picture of a washing machine and gets a tick. Hollis does a picture of a mother, father, brother and sister and the teacher draws a cross on her picture. The teacher doesn't wait to hear that Hollis made her 'W' picture to show Wishing, Want and Wouldn't it be loverly. Hollis runs away from several foster carers, the story switches between the current time and a family she had met that she was happy with until something went wrong.
We guessed what had happened pretty soon but we were still on the edge of our seats to find out what happened and desperately wishing it would turn out alright. We read this in one sitting luckily as we were anxious to make sure several characters were alright. There were some wonderful characters in this book. We loved the descriptions of the characters love of drawing and love of life despite their bad circumstances. This was a wonderful story and very uplifting. The end was very emotional and a real struggle to keep my voice steady for a read aloud! The only thing I can think of to improve this book would be some illustrations, I would have loved to see Hollis' drawings.
We guessed what had happened pretty soon but we were still on the edge of our seats to find out what happened and desperately wishing it would turn out alright. We read this in one sitting luckily as we were anxious to make sure several characters were alright. There were some wonderful characters in this book. We loved the descriptions of the characters love of drawing and love of life despite their bad circumstances. This was a wonderful story and very uplifting. The end was very emotional and a real struggle to keep my voice steady for a read aloud! The only thing I can think of to improve this book would be some illustrations, I would have loved to see Hollis' drawings.
March 13, 2022
What a way to start my reading year. I loved this middle grade about a young orphan girl who is wishing for a family of her own. She runs away from most of her foster families and gains a reputation for being a troublemaker. Finally she meets a few people who see through her rough exterior and choose to love her. I love how the story was told interspersed with descriptions of her drawings as memories and important moments. Hollis has a big heart and hearing her story warmed my heart and brought a few tears to my eyes. Loved it!
January 28, 2018
Buddy read with GR friend Laura. I could have easily read this book during a single day, if scheduled that way. It was very hard to stop reading as I wanted to keep reading, and I did read it over 3 days, my buddy taking a bit longer because she got even busier with real life than I am. Whatever you do, don’t pick page 125 as a stopping point. Luckily, the chapters are short and it’s easy to read just one more if you don’t want to stop.
I had seen and enjoyed the tv movie when it first aired. I remembered one scene at/near the end of the movie but was surprised and glad that I remembered no other details of the story, even as I read the book all the happened was not familiar and no memories of the story surfaced as I read it. The story was like new to me, and from what I remember of the movie, I think it changed a great deal from the book, especially the details of that one thing at the end of the movie and near the end of the book.
Great story. Wonderful and memorable characters including an especially unique cat.
I cried at the end, mostly happy tears. I would have adored this book when I was 9-12 years old and I loved it even now.
I might watch the movie again. I have the DVD home from the library. I want to see the art, particularly Hollis’s. I remember a bit about how Josie’s art looked.
Recommended for those who have interest in orphan/foster child stories, for artists and those interested in art, those who enjoy (complicated) family stories, those who can appreciate reading about older people with memory problems, cat lovers, most girls ages 9-12.
I had seen and enjoyed the tv movie when it first aired. I remembered one scene at/near the end of the movie but was surprised and glad that I remembered no other details of the story, even as I read the book all the happened was not familiar and no memories of the story surfaced as I read it. The story was like new to me, and from what I remember of the movie, I think it changed a great deal from the book, especially the details of that one thing at the end of the movie and near the end of the book.
Great story. Wonderful and memorable characters including an especially unique cat.
I cried at the end, mostly happy tears. I would have adored this book when I was 9-12 years old and I loved it even now.
I might watch the movie again. I have the DVD home from the library. I want to see the art, particularly Hollis’s. I remember a bit about how Josie’s art looked.
Recommended for those who have interest in orphan/foster child stories, for artists and those interested in art, those who enjoy (complicated) family stories, those who can appreciate reading about older people with memory problems, cat lovers, most girls ages 9-12.
October 19, 2022
I was happy. No, that doesn't even describe it. I was . . . jubilant, ecstatic.
I drew it using all the pencils - yellows and oranges, pinks and blues. I drew purple shoes on my feet and wings on my shoulders. My eyes were closed, the way you see pictures of angels sometimes with their eyelashes down on their cheeks. (PG. 119)
Newbery Honor Award- YA- 2002
I enjoyed this novel more than Lily's Crossing but I see how Reilly Giff writes about complicated topics. In Lily's Crossing it was about a child experiencing loss in the midst of WWII and in Pictures of Hollis Woods Giff writes about being an unloved orphan while trying be part of a family unit.
The book was a quick read, one sitting. I really wanted to see Hollis Woods' drawings. They sounded so beautiful and it would have added something special to the reading if the author would have found an illustrator. It was an emotional lovely read.
I drew it using all the pencils - yellows and oranges, pinks and blues. I drew purple shoes on my feet and wings on my shoulders. My eyes were closed, the way you see pictures of angels sometimes with their eyelashes down on their cheeks. (PG. 119)
Newbery Honor Award- YA- 2002
I enjoyed this novel more than Lily's Crossing but I see how Reilly Giff writes about complicated topics. In Lily's Crossing it was about a child experiencing loss in the midst of WWII and in Pictures of Hollis Woods Giff writes about being an unloved orphan while trying be part of a family unit.
The book was a quick read, one sitting. I really wanted to see Hollis Woods' drawings. They sounded so beautiful and it would have added something special to the reading if the author would have found an illustrator. It was an emotional lovely read.
July 26, 2017
Second book for BookTubeAThon 2017 completed!
Pictures of Hollis Woods by Patricia Reilly Giff
3 stars
Whimsical Writing Scale: 3
Character Scale: 3.25
Plotastic Scale: 3
Cover Thoughts: I don't particularly like the cover, but it's nostalgic for me because I recognize and know it so well.
Pictures of Hollis Woods by Patricia Reilly Giff
3 stars
Hollis Woods has spent her whole life running. Running from the houses she's put in under the foster care system, but also running from herself. Told in alternating points of Hollis' life- the past with a family she loved and who loved her back and the present with her current caretaker, an older woman who forgets things far too easily. Hollis is faced with the consequences of running from herself and how it has affected her confidence, psyche, and self-perception. In this novel, Giff tackles tough subjects like Alzheimer's and the effect it has on our loved ones as well as what happens when we believe the things that people tell us instead of defining ourselves. Hollis' struggle to cope with her own self-loathing at the young age of twelve-years-old portrays how adults' negatives words and admonishments shape our younger years, but also gives us hope that there are adults out there who are quick to love, cherish, and nurture the good that they see in young ones. This is a very intense story for the targeted age group, but I think it's very apt to start exposing children to these kinds of topics, especially topics like self-perception, disease infecting loved ones, and the struggle that children face with defining themselves. Giff's writing is nothing special, but it's an important story and one that has moved and affected millions. I remember how jealous I was that the higher reading group was reading the book that had a Hallmark movie coming out and my mom bought me a copy of the book after we watched the film together. I found it recently in her bedroom on a bookshelf and I instantly knew that I wanted to finally pick this one up. I'm twelve years late to picking this book up, but I'm really happy that I finally picked this one up. This isn't a groundbreaking novel for adults, but it is for children and I think that's so important.
Whimsical Writing Scale: 3
Character Scale: 3.25
Plotastic Scale: 3
Cover Thoughts: I don't particularly like the cover, but it's nostalgic for me because I recognize and know it so well.
August 25, 2016
This book is geared towards pre-teens and its a good short read for them but you don't necessarily have to be an adolescent to enjoy it. The concept of a family is given a whole new light. Hollis is a very unique character, undeniably one of a kind.
March 10, 2025
A 5 star read and one of my new favorite books. You’ll see me recommending this often over on Charlotte’s BookNook.
Insightful. Beautiful. Emotional.
Pictures of Hollis Woods follows a young orphan through two different times in her life. One, the present, is told in story form following Hollis living with an elderly lady she has come to love and wants to protect. The second, we see into the past from memories of pictures Hollis drew to set the scene.
Both timelines are told separately eventually merging into one last chapter to close the story.
A literary masterpiece. Such a compelling story told through the simplest sentences. On the surface it might seem simple and short, but underneath, it’s masterful and wise. I felt every emotion and saw every picture described. I physically couldn’t put this book down and my heart was beating in my chest while tears prickled in my eyes for the last half. I would recommend this to anyone based off of it being clean, but probably to the tween and teen crowd because they can truly understand the depth and complexity of the book. A must read.
Insightful. Beautiful. Emotional.
Pictures of Hollis Woods follows a young orphan through two different times in her life. One, the present, is told in story form following Hollis living with an elderly lady she has come to love and wants to protect. The second, we see into the past from memories of pictures Hollis drew to set the scene.
Both timelines are told separately eventually merging into one last chapter to close the story.
A literary masterpiece. Such a compelling story told through the simplest sentences. On the surface it might seem simple and short, but underneath, it’s masterful and wise. I felt every emotion and saw every picture described. I physically couldn’t put this book down and my heart was beating in my chest while tears prickled in my eyes for the last half. I would recommend this to anyone based off of it being clean, but probably to the tween and teen crowd because they can truly understand the depth and complexity of the book. A must read.
January 28, 2018
What a wonderful read! I so enjoyed reading this with my friend, Lisa. We both cried happy tears at the end. I know I would've loved this book as a kid, but now that I've discovered art mid-life, I loved it even more. Looking forward to watching the DVD soon.
If you enjoy books about misfit, eclectic characters; family stories, with a creative side, and if you enjoy happy endings, you might really like this book as well. I just love a teary, happy ending. My first by this author, and it won't be my last. ❤️
If you enjoy books about misfit, eclectic characters; family stories, with a creative side, and if you enjoy happy endings, you might really like this book as well. I just love a teary, happy ending. My first by this author, and it won't be my last. ❤️
February 10, 2017
I am really surprised that this is a Newbery Honor book and that it has such high ratings and good reviews. To begin with the writing is sub-par with some very awkward moments that make me feel as if there was little editing. Most of all, though, was the fact that it seemed to be written by someone who had done absolutely no research into the foster care system. Now, I'm not going to claim that I'm an expert, but I'm at least aware enough to recognize all the inconsistencies throughout this book.
Now, I realize that this is a children's book, but there really could have been more back story to Hollis. The way it is, we don't get to see what drives her feelings and actions, they just are. Children's books can still be honest without being too much for a kid and this book just isn't honest. Hollis is a foster kid yet her past experiences in the system aren't even hinted at. We know she's run away from half a dozen homes but no reason is given besides "I got sick of them and they got sick of me." I just see the author as being cowardly for not taking the story further, for not putting more into the character. This book is supposed to be an award winner, yet it does nothing brave or new and does not push any boundaries. It's totally safe and predictable.
Speaking of predictable, this is another issue I had with the book. Within the first few pages (literally), I had already predicted the rest of the book. Again, just because it's a children's book doesn't mean it can get away with being unsophisticated. Had I read this when I was younger I'm sure I would have felt patronized. Absolutely nothing surprised me about the book. Even the parts that were supposed to be mysterious and drive the plot forward were painfully obvious.
Coming to the end, the entire last fourth or so of the book was far too contrived. It went from being unrealistic to completely unbelievable. None of the characters' actions made sense and I was left rolling my eyes at the events that lead up to the perfect ending wrapped in a little bow.
If your looking for a book about a girl in foster care I would go with The Great Gilly Hopkins.
Now, I realize that this is a children's book, but there really could have been more back story to Hollis. The way it is, we don't get to see what drives her feelings and actions, they just are. Children's books can still be honest without being too much for a kid and this book just isn't honest. Hollis is a foster kid yet her past experiences in the system aren't even hinted at. We know she's run away from half a dozen homes but no reason is given besides "I got sick of them and they got sick of me." I just see the author as being cowardly for not taking the story further, for not putting more into the character. This book is supposed to be an award winner, yet it does nothing brave or new and does not push any boundaries. It's totally safe and predictable.
Speaking of predictable, this is another issue I had with the book. Within the first few pages (literally), I had already predicted the rest of the book. Again, just because it's a children's book doesn't mean it can get away with being unsophisticated. Had I read this when I was younger I'm sure I would have felt patronized. Absolutely nothing surprised me about the book. Even the parts that were supposed to be mysterious and drive the plot forward were painfully obvious.
Coming to the end, the entire last fourth or so of the book was far too contrived. It went from being unrealistic to completely unbelievable. None of the characters' actions made sense and I was left rolling my eyes at the events that lead up to the perfect ending wrapped in a little bow.
If your looking for a book about a girl in foster care I would go with The Great Gilly Hopkins.
April 14, 2008
I loved Picture of Hollis Woods. To start, I loved the author style of indirect characterization. The way he showed me how was the main character. Like when in-between chapter the author put sections called pictures. I like best the first picture, the way she showed us the abstract way Hollis thinks, the W picture marked with a big X because the teacher didn’t understand where the W words were. Next to say, I also liked the main topic theme. Hollis leaving her home to live in a way, an adoptive home with new person for her and get away from her life. A quote when they introduced the new house would be: “I’ve lived here” – Josie raised one eyebrow – “Since they invented the spoon.” Last but not least, is how the author showed me in deep details the environment around Hollis. The author made an excellent job describing the things. Like a part where it said “Outside it was almost dark. A silver moon curved over Old Man’s mountain, and a single star was just visible.” It perfect imagery took me inside the story, looking at that single star in the sky. This book was awesome, I really liked it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2012
I am quickly becoming a fan of Patricia Reilly Giff. How have I gone my whole well-read life without really knowing anything about such a gentle, effective, talented writer? This book was lovely. It was simple, but powerful and touching on themes of changing wayward, defiant behavior by loving: fixing the environment, not fixing the kid. My only complaint is that it was too short. I loved Hollis and each supporting character. I am now reading "Lily's Crossing" by Reilly Giff, and I think I'll like it more just because it's longer and more developed. I can't wait to read many more of the other books she's written. Lovely!
September 30, 2016
Highly recommend for age 10 and up. Note: no worries or warnings
December 27, 2021
One of the things I really liked about this book was the alternating chapters. While one set of chapters is in the here-and-now, showing us Hollis' life as she sees it, the other set of chapters is based on Hollis' art work, each chapter discussing one of her pictures and the memories that are associated with it. In this way we learn of Hollis' past; her mistakes, her dreams, and her wishes. I really liked it when Beatrice (Josie's cousin) says to Hollis that we often don't really see what's going on when we look at our art, but that eventually the truth will reveal itself in our pictures. That is exactly what happens toward the end: Hollis Woods sees what she has missed all along.
The characters in this book are very real as well. There are so many older kids in the foster care system that get shuttled from one family to another, never really finding a "home". It's good that Hollis isn't a terror; so many books about foster children have them creating havoc wherever they go. Hollis is just looking for love, a family, and somewhere to fit in.
The characters in this book are very real as well. There are so many older kids in the foster care system that get shuttled from one family to another, never really finding a "home". It's good that Hollis isn't a terror; so many books about foster children have them creating havoc wherever they go. Hollis is just looking for love, a family, and somewhere to fit in.
May 7, 2018
This book is one of my all-time favorites. Every time I open it, to any page, it transports me back into her world. It's so bitter-sweet. I love it.
January 9, 2012
I think this book means to do well, and its by a "beloved author", but, oh my did it have flaws. First off, it's shallow and too simple. I know it is for children, but there is no reason to weaken a story, or to dumb it down. Yes, I appreciate that this is a clean book, without as much as even a kiss or hand holding. I like that because clean is hard to find, and as a 6 th grade teacher, a necessity. It wasn't necessary to describe any abusive situations in Hollis' life (she is a foster child), but there was nothing even hinted at. Hollis likes to run away. She has run away from many foster homes in her 12 years. Why? She is afraid of becoming emotionally attached. Makes sense, but no where in her back story do we see an instance of her living happily with a family and being torn from them (which is entirely plausible in the world of foster care). There's just no evidence to back up her feelings.
The entire story I felt much like Josie, the aging foster mother who has dementia. I felt I was floating along in the story, but didn't really know what was going on. The pacing felt off. The story is told as a flip flop from the present to the past. At first, the past seems like a distant memory, but then you realize that Hollis is simply remembering the previous summer (of only a few months ago) when she lived with a pre-adoptive foster family. Except Hollis ran away and now is with Josie. By the end of the story, the problem is simple. Josie can't care for Hollis, so Hollis has to go live with Eleanor, but Hollis gets Josie to drive them north and "escapes" before having to move.
And of course there is a happy ending.
Now let me tell you about the nit-picky things that pulled me from the story. First off, I took classes and was certified as a foster mother. So I've met caseworkers. They dress neatly, not in food stained sweats as Giff describes them. They are way over worked, but let me tell you they'd notice if the foster mother had dementia to the level Josie is described as having. Finally, just because Hollis "chose" to run away, does not mean she would get the final say in where she lived. The family court judge would decide, and in this story, the Regans dearly want her, so of course they'd have been in court or in meetings working to get Hollis back.
When Hollis and Josie run away, Hollis goes to the "summer house" which is four miles from the Regan's "winter house". The police are looking for her, but no one checks the summer house, not even the Regan's. That's just plain senseless and weak writing. Later in the story the author describes the summer house as having a broken window and snow causing water damage that wasn't noticed until May. Ummm, if I owned two houses four miles apart, I'd be checking in on my house to make sure it was wintering all right.
Don't even ask me how much gas Hollis paid for on Long Island, but strangely, after the trip of about 175 miles they were on empty. What a gas guzzler!
Hollis heats soup on a stove, she calls a purse a pocketbook, she desires just one egg then she could make something delicious to eat. Ummm, is she 12 or 70? Hollis and Stephen (who we assume is also a foster child) walk 4 miles to the town to a store. They're 12, there not your children legally, but you are responsible for them. Should they really walk that far alone? Then there is Josie. Josie is a lovable character, really, my heart goes to her and so did Hollis'. It was a turning point for Hollis to care for another. Being protective made her more able to accept being protected. I like that part of the tale.
But the nitpick: Maybe Josie worked 44 years as an art teacher at a private school and had no pension, but if she was a NYS teacher at a public school, she'd have no money troubles in retirement as described by Giff. Even if she wasn't a pensioner, she's have her Social Security and after working her whole life, it wouldn't be riches, but she wouldn't be worried about having the money to buy food. Of course, the county would be paying her the daily rate for boarding a child, and that's partly to buy the kid decent food.
Should you read this? Yes, it's easy and about 150 pages. It's good for a class with poor comprehension because it is simple. It could be used in grades 4-6. For an award winner, it just could have been better.
The entire story I felt much like Josie, the aging foster mother who has dementia. I felt I was floating along in the story, but didn't really know what was going on. The pacing felt off. The story is told as a flip flop from the present to the past. At first, the past seems like a distant memory, but then you realize that Hollis is simply remembering the previous summer (of only a few months ago) when she lived with a pre-adoptive foster family. Except Hollis ran away and now is with Josie. By the end of the story, the problem is simple. Josie can't care for Hollis, so Hollis has to go live with Eleanor, but Hollis gets Josie to drive them north and "escapes" before having to move.
And of course there is a happy ending.
Now let me tell you about the nit-picky things that pulled me from the story. First off, I took classes and was certified as a foster mother. So I've met caseworkers. They dress neatly, not in food stained sweats as Giff describes them. They are way over worked, but let me tell you they'd notice if the foster mother had dementia to the level Josie is described as having. Finally, just because Hollis "chose" to run away, does not mean she would get the final say in where she lived. The family court judge would decide, and in this story, the Regans dearly want her, so of course they'd have been in court or in meetings working to get Hollis back.
When Hollis and Josie run away, Hollis goes to the "summer house" which is four miles from the Regan's "winter house". The police are looking for her, but no one checks the summer house, not even the Regan's. That's just plain senseless and weak writing. Later in the story the author describes the summer house as having a broken window and snow causing water damage that wasn't noticed until May. Ummm, if I owned two houses four miles apart, I'd be checking in on my house to make sure it was wintering all right.
Don't even ask me how much gas Hollis paid for on Long Island, but strangely, after the trip of about 175 miles they were on empty. What a gas guzzler!
Hollis heats soup on a stove, she calls a purse a pocketbook, she desires just one egg then she could make something delicious to eat. Ummm, is she 12 or 70? Hollis and Stephen (who we assume is also a foster child) walk 4 miles to the town to a store. They're 12, there not your children legally, but you are responsible for them. Should they really walk that far alone? Then there is Josie. Josie is a lovable character, really, my heart goes to her and so did Hollis'. It was a turning point for Hollis to care for another. Being protective made her more able to accept being protected. I like that part of the tale.
But the nitpick: Maybe Josie worked 44 years as an art teacher at a private school and had no pension, but if she was a NYS teacher at a public school, she'd have no money troubles in retirement as described by Giff. Even if she wasn't a pensioner, she's have her Social Security and after working her whole life, it wouldn't be riches, but she wouldn't be worried about having the money to buy food. Of course, the county would be paying her the daily rate for boarding a child, and that's partly to buy the kid decent food.
Should you read this? Yes, it's easy and about 150 pages. It's good for a class with poor comprehension because it is simple. It could be used in grades 4-6. For an award winner, it just could have been better.
October 27, 2022
Sweet story of a foster child's journey. Interesting to follow her arc and get a glimpse inside her head. Precious parents and unconditional love wait for her.
October 17, 2007
Pictures of Hollis Woods by Patricia Reilly Giff (Author of the Newbery Honor Book Lily's Crossing) is a book about a girl named Hollis Woods (abviously) who is an orphan. She has gone from house to house always getting kicked out for things she doesn't even always do, until finally she finds a family she really feels apart of.
She likes to draw pictures, and that's why I think it is called PICTURES of HOLLIS WOODS.
Almost every chapter of the book goes back and forth. One chapter will be about what's going on in her life at the moment, and then the next will be about a picture she has drawn, and why she drew it, and the story of the picture. All of the pictures are of things and people in her life, sush as the family she actually feels apart of.
I'm not quite sure actually if it's a fictional or non- fictional book. It seems like it could be real, but also there is a possibility of it being made up.
It makes you want to keep on reading becuase you want to know what happens with her and her new family and if she will stay with them. Also, to read about her pictures. It's actually quite fascinating to hear the story behind her pictures. She explains what the picture is and why she drew it and then she kindof just talks about things around that time, like what was going on, and why they were doing what they were doing in the picture.
I'm not quite sure who I would suggest this book to. I guess I would suggest it to people who just like to read about people's lives and different things they go through and why the people do certain things in the book. Also, to anyone who's looking for a little variety in their readings, you know, something just different from other books.
She likes to draw pictures, and that's why I think it is called PICTURES of HOLLIS WOODS.
Almost every chapter of the book goes back and forth. One chapter will be about what's going on in her life at the moment, and then the next will be about a picture she has drawn, and why she drew it, and the story of the picture. All of the pictures are of things and people in her life, sush as the family she actually feels apart of.
I'm not quite sure actually if it's a fictional or non- fictional book. It seems like it could be real, but also there is a possibility of it being made up.
It makes you want to keep on reading becuase you want to know what happens with her and her new family and if she will stay with them. Also, to read about her pictures. It's actually quite fascinating to hear the story behind her pictures. She explains what the picture is and why she drew it and then she kindof just talks about things around that time, like what was going on, and why they were doing what they were doing in the picture.
I'm not quite sure who I would suggest this book to. I guess I would suggest it to people who just like to read about people's lives and different things they go through and why the people do certain things in the book. Also, to anyone who's looking for a little variety in their readings, you know, something just different from other books.
October 21, 2009
When I first started reading this book I thought, "Oh, it's one of those poetically written melancholy books. Clearly, someone is going to die."
So I was pleasantly surprised when no one died and I would recommend it on that merit alone. It is beautifully written too, if you're the type that loves writing that is prose-like.
I only faulted it because it seems to be one of those kids' books that are written more for adults than children. My kids couldn't get into it, probably because of the beautifully written prose, but maybe that just says something about my kids.
So I was pleasantly surprised when no one died and I would recommend it on that merit alone. It is beautifully written too, if you're the type that loves writing that is prose-like.
I only faulted it because it seems to be one of those kids' books that are written more for adults than children. My kids couldn't get into it, probably because of the beautifully written prose, but maybe that just says something about my kids.
February 29, 2012
I love what Patricia Reilly Giff was able to do with Hollis Woods in less than 200 pages. Beautiful book.
December 1, 2023
An acquaintance leant me this book, after carrying it everywhere in her car for two months until she saw me again. Needless to say this was very touching, and I so I knew I needed to give it my attention.
This book was actually better than I expected it to be. After having first-hand experience with many foster girls around this age, I’ve become more cynical about the “fairy tale” books about darling orphans finding magical homes and fitting right in. Don’t get me wrong. This book is telling that same age old (often unrealistically simple) story, but she crafts it is a creative and poetic way, flipping backwards and forwards in time in a manner that is pleasant. (If you like this you ought to read Mandy by Julie Andrews Edwards and the other book I mention later in this review)
The author tries to pretend Hollis is “rough” and somewhat of a trouble-maker when in reality the book only portrays her as a very quiet, thoughtful girl (honestly she thinks like a poetic thirty-year-old) who is extremely talented at drawing. (Um…did the author read When Marnie Was There? Just wondering) Other than saying a few gruff sentences here and there, Hollis was practically an angel. An extremely selfless, thoughtful, intelligent angel. This is no Gilly Hopkins here. Not at all.
This book was actually better than I expected it to be. After having first-hand experience with many foster girls around this age, I’ve become more cynical about the “fairy tale” books about darling orphans finding magical homes and fitting right in. Don’t get me wrong. This book is telling that same age old (often unrealistically simple) story, but she crafts it is a creative and poetic way, flipping backwards and forwards in time in a manner that is pleasant. (If you like this you ought to read Mandy by Julie Andrews Edwards and the other book I mention later in this review)
The author tries to pretend Hollis is “rough” and somewhat of a trouble-maker when in reality the book only portrays her as a very quiet, thoughtful girl (honestly she thinks like a poetic thirty-year-old) who is extremely talented at drawing. (Um…did the author read When Marnie Was There? Just wondering) Other than saying a few gruff sentences here and there, Hollis was practically an angel. An extremely selfless, thoughtful, intelligent angel. This is no Gilly Hopkins here. Not at all.
February 21, 2024
"Pictures of Hollis Woods" is a heartwarming novel by Patricia Reilly Giff that tells the story of a young girl named Hollis Woods who has been in foster care for as long as she can remember. The book explores themes of family, belonging, and the power of art to heal emotional wounds.
Hollis, a talented artist, finds solace in creating pictures that capture the beauty of the world around her. Throughout the story, she learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and the importance of connecting with others. The characters are well-developed and the emotional depth of the story makes it a compelling read for both young readers and adults.
Overall, "Pictures of Hollis Woods" is a touching and beautifully written book that will resonate with readers of all ages. It is a story of resilience, hope, and the journey to find where you truly belong.
Hollis, a talented artist, finds solace in creating pictures that capture the beauty of the world around her. Throughout the story, she learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and the importance of connecting with others. The characters are well-developed and the emotional depth of the story makes it a compelling read for both young readers and adults.
Overall, "Pictures of Hollis Woods" is a touching and beautifully written book that will resonate with readers of all ages. It is a story of resilience, hope, and the journey to find where you truly belong.
December 31, 2021
This book was one conflicting adjective after another, or rather just my personal thoughts on it. They go a little like this: heart warming, heart wrenching, loneliness and belonging, grief and joy. It was a wonderful read, and not just for children. So grateful to finally have pulled this off my shelf to read. Highly recommend.
March 16, 2023
3.5 stars
A touching story that can inspire a lot of conversation with young readers…but the way the story was told was slightly confusing and the conclusion was slightly rushed and lackluster. The whole book felt like it was building to some big reveal or some big emotional ending…so when the average, predictable ending finally arrived it was a bit like “oh that’s the end? ok.”
A touching story that can inspire a lot of conversation with young readers…but the way the story was told was slightly confusing and the conclusion was slightly rushed and lackluster. The whole book felt like it was building to some big reveal or some big emotional ending…so when the average, predictable ending finally arrived it was a bit like “oh that’s the end? ok.”
March 5, 2022
3⭐️
A story of a young girl in Forster care reflecting on some pivotal memories in her life as she waited for her forever family.
It was a nice story, but nothing super wonderful
A story of a young girl in Forster care reflecting on some pivotal memories in her life as she waited for her forever family.
It was a nice story, but nothing super wonderful
May 5, 2020
I loved this book just as much as I loved the movie!!
September 6, 2021
This book was so so good. It is definitely my favorite from this author. I loved how it switched from the past to the present. Sometimes going back and forth like that will annoy me, but it was done really well in this book. It really let you see why Hollis is who she is, and that made the rest of the book so special.
May 28, 2018
I feel like a bad guy giving this book such a low rating, but honestly none of it rings true and I can't imagine any kid who would be interested in reading it. Children's literature has come a LONG way since 2002 when this book was published. That's very recent in my time frame, but books written with this false sense of reality just aren't written anymore, and kids won't relate. Ironically, the group of kids who will least like this book are kids in foster care.
Hollis Woods is a girl who has been in the foster care system since she was an infant. The last two placements have been perfect. The story alternates back and forth between them. Her current placement is with Josie, a retired art teacher. Since Hollis has a real talent for drawing, this is a perfect placement. Unfortunately, it is only temporary because Josie has dementia and Hollis will soon need a new home. This makes her long for the family she lived with before Josie. Every other chapter flashes back to the previous summer when she lived in upstate New York with this family. They wanted to adopt Hollis, but when their only son, Steven, gets hurt in an accident, Hollis blames herself and runs away. She doesn't want to bring bad luck to the family.
The problem I have with this book is that I have never heard of a foster situation where the families are this great. I've never heard of a foster child that is this well-adjusted and talented. Giff fails miserably to accurately depict what it's really like for foster kids. In order to like the story you have to ignore all the obvious flaws about the foster care system and just see a sentimental story about a talented girl in search of a family.
Hollis Woods is a girl who has been in the foster care system since she was an infant. The last two placements have been perfect. The story alternates back and forth between them. Her current placement is with Josie, a retired art teacher. Since Hollis has a real talent for drawing, this is a perfect placement. Unfortunately, it is only temporary because Josie has dementia and Hollis will soon need a new home. This makes her long for the family she lived with before Josie. Every other chapter flashes back to the previous summer when she lived in upstate New York with this family. They wanted to adopt Hollis, but when their only son, Steven, gets hurt in an accident, Hollis blames herself and runs away. She doesn't want to bring bad luck to the family.
The problem I have with this book is that I have never heard of a foster situation where the families are this great. I've never heard of a foster child that is this well-adjusted and talented. Giff fails miserably to accurately depict what it's really like for foster kids. In order to like the story you have to ignore all the obvious flaws about the foster care system and just see a sentimental story about a talented girl in search of a family.
May 1, 2013
I couldn't bring myself to like this book all that much.
I found the book rushed and undeveloped. I understand that Hollis is an orphan who likes to draw and had some 'dark' secret but that's it. I didn't grow to like her like I hoped I would, but rather felt nothing towards her. I didn't hate her or didn't like her, she was just there. I feel like she's missing that quality that sets her apart from characters of other books I read. Also, I don't really understand why people thought of her as trouble and a bad kid. I get the not going to school part, but that's all I can think of. She's not bad in any kind of way. All she does is stay in a house then leave.
Also, the ending annoyed me too. I was getting to really like Josie and right when they were going to stay together and start all over, she just dumps her and goes back to Steven and his family. She did Josie good and I was just really disappointed she ended up going back.
I didn't like this book that much and was such a disappointment to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2013
What a great picture book for older readers! Pictures of Hollis Woods takes the reader through a series of beautiful pictures that tells this child's story of growing up within the foster care system. This child moves from home to home, and finally finds a place that she wants to stay for a while. Once here with her new care taker, Hollis will do whatever it takes to stay in this home. This is a great story for students to begin to understand the struggles that some children must face at such a young age. Teachers can use this book for many different purposes and adults can use this book as a great conversation starter with children who may be going through something similar. Overall, a great read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,403 reviews