
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the aftermath of a family crisis, a significant physical injury, or the pain of social isolation. It is a powerful tool for navigating the heavy emotions of guilt and abandonment while teaching the value of looking past appearances to find the true character of others. Set in the 1960s Canadian prairies, the story follows twelve-year-old Emaline as she deals with a life-altering farm accident, the sudden departure of her father, and the loss of her pet. When her mother hires Angus, a man recently released from a mental hospital, Emaline discovers that the person the town fears most might be the one who can help her family heal. This verse novel is emotionally intense but ultimately provides a path toward forgiveness and resilience for middle-grade readers.
Themes of parental abandonment, permanent disability, and severe social isolation.
A graphic farm accident resulting in a permanent leg injury.
The book deals directly and realistically with the trauma of a permanent leg injury sustained in an accident, the shooting of a pet, and parental abandonment. The portrayal of mental health is grounded in historical context, showing the stigma of the 1960s. The resolution is realistic and hopeful, focusing on internal healing rather than a magical 'fix' for the leg or the father's return.
A thoughtful 10 to 12 year old who appreciates lyrical writing and isn't afraid of 'sad' books. It is perfect for a child who feels like an outsider or is processing a difficult change in their family structure.
Parents should be prepared to discuss the historical treatment of mental health and the language used by the townspeople, such as 'sub-human' and 'crazy.' The verse format makes it a quick read, so parents can easily preview it in one sitting. The scene where the father shoots the family dog out of misplaced rage is visceral and may be very upsetting for sensitive children or animal lovers.
Younger readers (9-10) will focus on the loss of the dog and the physical injury. Older readers (12-13) will better grasp the nuances of the mother's desperation, the systemic prejudice against Angus, and the father's psychological breakdown.
The use of free verse to tell such a gritty, grounded historical story is unique. It provides 'white space' on the page that allows the reader to breathe through the heavy themes of trauma and social cruelty. """
In 1965 Saskatchewan, Emaline Bitterman suffers a permanent leg injury in a tractor accident. Her father, consumed by guilt and anger, kills their dog and deserts the family. To save the farm, Emaline's mother hires Angus, a man from the local mental institution. Despite the town's cruel prejudice and her own initial fear, Emaline builds a bond with Angus that helps her process her trauma and her father's abandonment.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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