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danacoledares's review against another edition
3.0
Enjoyable. I disagree with the choice to put it in verse. That keeps it focused on Serafina's thoughts, which means there's next to no description. And given that most American children probably don't know a whole lot about Haiti, that's a lost opportunity.
I'm curious what made her want to write this particular story.
I'm curious what made her want to write this particular story.
crystal_reading's review against another edition
4.0
Serafina is a determined little girl in Haiti. Her family has already lost one child and they are working hard to keep themselves fed and sheltered. Serafina wants more though. She wants to go to school so she can be a doctor and she is willing to do a lot to make that dream come true. This is a story of trouble, family love, and persistence.
ageorges's review against another edition
4.0
Not gonna lie. This book made me cry like a baby. I loved, loved, LOVED the main character and her persistence and hope warmed my heart. Her interactions with her friends and family were absolutely beautiful. We need more decent books set in the Caribbean.
afro8921's review against another edition
4.0
Serafina is growing up in Haiti and longs to go to school and be a doctor. This interest is sparked by the death of her baby brother and her family's interaction with a haitian female doctor. Seeing the docotr's ability to heal give Serafina the hutzpah to ask to go to school. The author efectively combines the elements of tenancity, kindness, and courage in Serafina's character. This story is an excellent read for children seeking to learn more about other cultures.
yourpalmal13's review against another edition
5.0
If you ever want a book that will make you cry, make you want to get out and help others, and most importantly be thankful for what you are blessed with this is it.
"I'll tell her I understand
I'll tell her I am happy
With what I have
But so many people have nothing.
I only want to help them."
"I'll tell her I understand
I'll tell her I am happy
With what I have
But so many people have nothing.
I only want to help them."
froggylibrarian1's review against another edition
5.0
Serafina lives in Haiti with her mom and dad. She has a lot of chores because she is an only child. Her mom is expecting and Serafina hopes that this baby will live. Serafina's dream and promise to herself is that she will become a doctor so she can prevent babies from dying and help her people. In order to go to school Serafina needs to get money for books and a uniform and convince her mom. When a flood hits their town and then the massive earthquake hits can Serfina keep her promise alive?
This was really very good. They were some great gems of writing and hope. With the earthquake in Haiti and the rebuilding there still a relevant issue I think students will find this a good read.
pagingmrsvarnum's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
4.0
I absolutely loved this book. It’s a novel in verse and a quick read, but it’s full of hope and emotion. Serafina is a young girl living in Haiti who dreams of being a doctor. She lives with her parents and grandmother, and her mother is pregnant after previously having a newborn pass away. Serafina wrestles with grief and makes a promise to herself that she will become a doctor so that she can help other sick children, despite all the obstacles in her way, which include poverty, responsibilities at home, and natural disasters.
I enjoyed listening to this book so that I could hear the correct pronunciations of the Creole and French words, but the narrator’s rhythm and tone while reading the poetry was a little grating at times. This is the second book by the author that I’ve read this year, but it won’t be the last! I love her lyrical words - I can really see the characters and scenes in my mind, even though the settings are so far removed from my own experiences. Grades 3+
kellerm's review against another edition
4.0
Very sweet story. Easy to read. I think kids will relate to characters. Can teach some appreciation. Good for diversity.
kkocik's review against another edition
4.0
This is my second novel-in-verse; I absolutely loved it! It's definitely written for upper-elementary and early-middle students, but it's got a great message and a beautiful story! Serafina is a delightful, hardworking young girl with big dreams and it's amazing watching her grow into such an inspirational female character! I also think that the book alludes to the Haitian earthquake that happened a few years ago...interesting timeline there. It flows smoothly and feels more prose-y than verse-y. Fabulous read!!!