BROOKLYN ROSE

Ann Rinaldi explores the life of her grandmother. At the dawn of the twentieth century, life is about to change for 15-year-old Rose Frampton. Her family is struggling in South Carolina, a state still suffering the effects of the Civil War. When Rene Dumarest, a wealthy New York businessman, is smitten with Rose, they marry, and she becomes the mistress of a grand estate in New York. Kate Forbes is believable as the young Rose as she navigates the uncharted waters between her childhood and adulthood. Through a fictional diary, Forbes gives voice to a courageous girl who grows into an admirable woman. An author's note shares Rinaldi's motivation for the story and encourages listeners to explore their own family stories. N.E.M. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 07]