The Vacation by Polly Horvath won last year's "Chocolate Lily Award". Based on that recommendation, I decided to read it. This is one of those books that I couldn't decide whether to like or pity the characters. Henry's parents leave for Africa (why do people say Africa - it's a continent, not a country?)and ask his aunts Aunt Magnolia and Pigg to babysit him. Now these aunts are 40 years old and quite frankly, being 40ish myself, I felt the things they did seemed closer to 60ish. I digress...
After a bout of sickness and a 40th birthday party, Aunt Mag decides it's time to take that vacation they never took. There is a lot of arguing, disappointment, and frustration. There is also moments of comedy, reflection and contentment. Mag, Pigg, and Henry drive all over the US and take us along for the ride.
I don't think I would take a family vacation again, if I have to endure the events Henry took but you can be the judge. This book is recommended for children 10 and older. I wouldn't use it as a read-aloud for younger children due to some of the content and regular "cutting remarks" make by the characters. There's not a lot of love in this book.
Currently reading: I am David
No comments:
Post a Comment