The Copper Lady (On My Own History)

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Summary: This charming story will appeal greatly to young readers!
Review: Historical fiction for children, this tale is set in 1880s France. With simple, charming text and lovely, expressive illustrations, it tells the story of Andre, a young orphan in Paris, who visits the site where the Statue of Liberty is being built. As the statue is about to leave Paris, Andre decides to stow away on the ship that will bring it to America. Along the way, the ship hits a terrible storm. Will Andre and the statue make it to America together? Read this book and find out. My kids loved it. We highly recommend it

Rating:
Summary: Children need historical accuracy!!
Review: Unfortunately, I must differ with the praise this book has received. For starters, even though the book covers over a year and a half, Andre doesn't grow and his hair remains nicely cut (Notice that his short pants in the beginning are the same short pants in the end) Even though the book mentions that he snuck scraps of food and water from the kitchen, it's hard to believe the author doesn't mention how hungry he must have been (Boys this age are constantly eating). And he looks so clean when he is found out, how does he do that? Where did he go to the bathroom? And then there's the unbelievable heroics - give me a break!! Realistic fiction for children, no matter the reading level, must be accurately told in both words and pictures. In this case the book fails on both counts.