Strawberry Hill

by A. LaFaye

From the author of the acclaimed The Year of the Sawdust Man comes the story of 12-year-old Raleia, who has just moved to Tidal, Maine. It is 1974 and she is enchanted with the town's history until her friendship with a reclusive old man teaches her that the past was not as idyllic as she imagined.

Genres: Young Adult, Childrens

272 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this book up in Portland, ME, and it's a story that takes place on the coast of Maine. At first I thought it was a kids book, as the main character is 12 years old, but I've changed my mind. The main conflict this girl faces are her perceived parent-inflicted childhood traumas, which she is coping with in realistic, if not always productive, ways. With themes of family miscommunication and learning to live harmoniously with your parents in spite of their imperfections, this book feels more appropriate for a 20-30 year old audience than a 12-year-old audience.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the message of this book. The heroine was so sure she was right about her parents' weirdness and lack of concern for her, but she learns to see her world in a very different way. I think that's an important part of growing up, and was well portrayed here.

[Abigail · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book I did not like. I would not recommend this book.

[Jenny K]

The main character of this book is not a nice girl. Ugly to her parents and complete strangers, she has major attitude issues. Not something I want my girls thinking is appropriate behavior.
While the resolution of the story is good, it doesn't show growth or show much remorse for her behavior. This could have been a good lesson, but the end seems rushed and the lesson gets lost.

[Super Piss Baby · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good book. Focuses on family, death, loneliness and acceptance. The writing is good and realistic.

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must have read this book about half a dozen times when I was twelve.

[JennLynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A girl who fantasizes about living in the past comes to accept her parents and her imperfect present. B+

[Jerrilynn Lilyblade]

I registered a book at BookCrossing.com!
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/11123497