Reviews

Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer L. Holm

msbucher's review against another edition

funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix

3.5

mockingthebird's review against another edition

3.0

A great well written book, the ending was abrupt but appropriate going along with what’s been happening. I wish all the heart felt parts weren’t squished into a couple of chapters at the end. I also wish it hadn’t ended in the way it did, but it made it more realistic. People don’t always stick around long and that’s something important to teach, especially to younger kids.

stevie_b's review

3.5

Great historical fiction, I love how the author has the bit in the back that talks about what the actual inspirations were for her book. I was worried it was going to be tied up a little too well with a pretty bow, Spoiler but Holm did a great job making the ending poignant and leaves hope for their future after taking their happy ending away. Plot is interesting without being too complicated for kids, a linear plot that has some flashbacks. The characters are good, and Holm does a good job of giving the members of The Diaper Gang distinct voices. She also did a really good job of introducing the readers to a world they probably aren't familiar with.

ejmiddleton's review

4.0

Henry tried reading this on his own, and said he hated it. We read it aloud, and he declared, "I really misjudged this!"

I loved it. I loved the writing and the plot. I was reminded of my favorite ever class in school, where two teachers taught history through literature - this did that! We learned about Shirley Temple, Fred and Ginger, Necco wafers, the depression, poverty, Key West, slang, and disappointment. There was a four year old so right on we thought he was Oliver. Also, for a lesson on similes, look no further.

ofpagesandink's review against another edition

adventurous funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Had to read this for school. 

Super cute story! It's not specifically a coming of age story but it's definitely about one finding a home where you least expect it and I think that's a lesson a lot of people have to learn in their lives. You can dream of better things but sometimes the best things are right in front of you.

libraryrobin's review against another edition

4.0

Loved this historic fiction graphic novel, taking place on Key West during the Depression. Good story, fun characters, excellent artwork.

allen_h's review

3.0

This was an easy read with enjoyable characters. "

I can see past the rickety porch and the tin roof and know it’s built just like its people, to sway in a storm and not break."

klonghall's review

4.0

Very charming book. Loved the characters & a peek into life in Key West during the Depression.

jengennari's review

5.0

Love the spunky main character! And I was struck by how the ending wasn't happily ever after, just the way life is. (so cool to have just met the author, too--thanks Jenni for inspiring talk at SCBWI.)

tcbueti's review

4.0

Unusual setting and time for this novel of a girl sent to Key West during the Depression--her housekeeper mother's employer doesn't want a child in her house. Turtle ends up with an aunt who is already struggling to keep up with her own children, whose husband is away most of the time. Turtle's cousins are not that thrilled to have her there--she gets her own room, forcing them to double up. But they gradually win each other over and have several adventures, all very atmospheric and seafaring.

I found the ending a bit abrupt, but it made sense and left room for some satisfying developments.