Newbery Winner 1983

I listened to this remarkable book several years ago. At that time, I was completely unaware that there were additional books in the Tillerman series following this particular one. However, now that I have reread both this book and The Homecoming, I find myself filled with excitement to continue exploring the series. These books are truly wonderful. They offer a captivating and engaging story that draws the reader in and keeps them hooked from start to finish. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the themes explored are both thought-provoking and relevant. I can't wait to see what other adventures and experiences await the Tillerman family in the remaining books of the series.

The Tillerman children face numerous challenges as they strive to settle into their new home. The first installment in this series, "Homecoming," was, similar to many books about children fending for themselves, somewhat insular and offered a quiet form of escapism. However, their reintegration into normal life in this book lacks that indulgent tone. Both books, nevertheless, rely on Dicey's remarkable ability to understand, love, and benevolently influence her family members. Her competency and problem-solving skills are truly satisfying to witness.

In the middle third of the book, there are some rather clumsy conflicts between Dicey and authority figures. But the more protracted conflict of overcoming trauma to establish bonds of trust is far more nuanced and engaging.

Then, in the final third, the book takes a significant turn. Dicey's mother passes away. I found this to be ridiculously affecting, and this is partly due to the counterbalance of mundane moments. But, to be honest, it's mostly because I myself recently lost a parent. It has a hint of Newberry-style tragedy. It seems more dramatic to write her out rather than figuring out how the family would cope with her mother's presence. There are particularly egregious scenes where Dicey wonders, "Why? How? How could someone die of just being crazy, the kind of sad, faraway craziness that Momma had?" and where James tells her, "It’s better this way, Dicey... I read about it, at the library. Almost nobody recovers, when they’re as far gone as Momma was." These scenes illustrate how unsubstantiated, dramatized, and borderline offensive this character death feels.

The ending had its pros and cons for me, but it still dampens my overall impression of what is otherwise a compelling, quiet novel with a clear and engaging central theme.

Now that "Homecoming" got me "stuck" on a series and invested in a couple of characters, I HAD to read this one!

In a way, I'm sorry I did, as it took me down some roads I did NOT need to go down. Then again, though...

I'm REALLY glad I DID read this. First of all, you know that saying, "out of the mouth of babes"? Well...

This book falls into that category, sort of. Guess you have to change the old adage, though, to "out of the mouth FOR babes", since the book was originally intended for teens. BUT...

Like the first one, from this book ANYONE can learn something valuable. Do you realize that the majority of families are NOT actually "functional", but "dysfunctional", and VERY so? It's true, I think. That's what I learned from this book. Granted, it's a sad fact, but then again...

It's not. As, since most of us are/were "dysfunctional", it's nice to know that we aren't/weren't alone. You know, "misery loves company" kind of thing (very "cliche" this morning, aren't I?), which then means, our (those of us who are/were dysfunctional) lives weren't as bad as we thought. If that makes any sense? Guess you'd have to be wearing the same "shoes" to understand! Anyway...

The "road" it took me down made me cry, and BUCKETS of tears, BUT...

It was a GOOD and VERY cleansing cry, and I learned some valuable lessons, that HOPEFULLY, I can put into play.

OK, I'm off to steal the 3rd book in the series from that bratty daughter of mine that got me hooked on this blasted thing! 8^)

June 28, 2011 ****

This date holds a certain significance. It could mark an important event, a personal milestone, or simply a day that stands out in one's memory.

July 30, 2016 ****

Five years after the first date, July 30, 2016, arrives. During these years, many things may have changed. People may have grown, relationships may have evolved, and the world around us may have witnessed various developments.

Each of these dates is like a snapshot in time, capturing a moment that is unique and irreplaceable. They serve as reminders of the past and as signposts for the future.

Whether it's a happy occasion, a challenging experience, or something in between, these dates contribute to the tapestry of our lives.

As we look back on these dates, we can reflect on how far we've come and look forward to what lies ahead.