Giff, Patricia Reilly. 2006. WATER STREET. New York: Wendy Lamb Books. ISBN 0385730683
2. Plot Summary
The setting of the story take place in Brooklyn, 1875. The Brooklyn Bridge is the process of being constructed. Bird Mallon is a young girl that wants to follow in the foot steps of her mother to become a healer, but after seeing her mother care for an injured boy she is no longer sure what she wants to be. She would like to help her older sister Annie fall in love and stop her brother Hughie from boxing for a living. Thomas Nery moves into the apartment above Birds. He is a quiet boy with no mother that loves to write. His desire is to become part of a family and find a best friend. Their friendship will help them find the answers they are looking for.
3. Critical Analysis
This story is told from two different perspectives. The chapters alternate between the main characters Bird and Thomas. The characters in the story are believable and children of the present are able to identify with them. Children want to fit in and be loved by their friends and family. Even though this story takes place in the past it could be a story told in any time period. The setting of the story is described with just the right amount of details for the age group of the readers and to make it believable. The characters in the story have Irish roots. The author brings this to life with them referring to their heritage and the customs of the family. The author has a wonderful grasp of the exciting event of history of building the Brooklyn Bridge and combines bringing this event with the two characters learning about growing up.
4. Review Excerpts
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "A strong friendship develops between the young teens. The creation of the bridge looms as a dream that parallels the dreams of the characters."
BOOKLIST: "A poignant immigration story of friendship, work, and the meaning of home."
5. Connections
Suggested reading level 9-12 years old.
This books could be used in a discussion to let children take about their heritage. Where did their families come from? What traditions do they still celebrate from their ancestors?
Other books about Irish heritage:
Duey, Kathleen. NELL DUNNE; ELLIS ISLAND, 1904. ISBN 0689835558
Giff, Patricia Reilly. MAGGIES DOOR. ISBN 9780440415817
Giff, Patricia Reilly. NORY RYANS SONG. ISBN 9780440418290
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