
Reach for this book when your child is starting to question family traditions or feels the heavy weight of being a 'good kid.' It is perfect for the pre-teen who is testing boundaries and wondering if they can still be loved even when they make significant mistakes. Set in 1899 Vermont, the story follows Robbie, a preacher's son who decides to 'retire' from Christianity to live life to the fullest before the turn of the century. What follows is a humorous yet deeply moving exploration of guilt, honesty, and the realization that grace is often found in the most unexpected places. It is an ideal pick for ages 9 to 12, offering a safe space to discuss faith, ethics, and the messy process of growing up without being overly preachy. Parents will appreciate the way it balances historical charm with universal emotional truths about family loyalty and self-discovery.
Protagonist intentionally chooses to lie and misbehave to test boundaries.
A character is lost in a storm and there is a threat of a wrongful arrest.
Exploration of societal mistreatment of those with developmental disabilities.
The book deals with religious doubt, the fear of the apocalypse, and depicts instances of prejudice and misunderstanding towards a character with a developmental disability (Robbie's brother, Elliot). The approach is direct and grounded in the historical period. The resolution is hopeful, emphasizing unconditional love and family reconciliation over strict dogma.
A 10-year-old who feels stifled by high expectations at home or school and is beginning to develop a cynical sense of humor to cope with their anxiety about 'fitting in.'
Be prepared to discuss the ways Elliot is misunderstood and treated unfairly by some characters in the book, and how Robbie responds to this. The book offers an opportunity to discuss how prejudice and lack of understanding can affect individuals and families. The book is historically accurate but can be read cold by most 10 to 12-year-olds. A parent might notice their child becoming unusually secretive, testing rules they used to follow easily, or expressing fear about 'getting in trouble' even for small mistakes.
Younger readers will enjoy the humor and Robbie's antics. Older readers will pick up on the nuanced critique of religious hypocrisy and the internal struggle Robbie feels between his desire for independence and his need for belonging.
Unlike many historical novels that romanticize the past, Paterson provides a gritty, funny, and honest look at a boy's internal life, making the 1890s feel immediate and relatable to modern kids. """
In the final months of 1899, ten-year-old Robbie Hewitt decides to abandon his Christian faith to avoid the pressure of his father's expectations and enjoy life before the world potentially ends at the turn of the century. His attempts at being 'wicked' lead to various scrapes, but when a local man is wrongly accused of a crime and his own brother faces danger, Robbie must confront the reality of his choices and the depth of his father's love.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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