Zack

Rating:
Summary: A Persoanl Connection
Review: I have a personal connection to the story of Richard Pierpoint, having grown up where Zack's fictional farm is located. I was very interested to read William Bell's book. I found the story to be well constructed with regards to Zack's new life in rural Ontario, his discovery of Pierpoint's story and his family connection to Mississippi. The story flows well and the use of language is very natural. The description of small Ontario definitely rings true. I think that many people (especially teenagers) would find it of interest. My personal interest in Pierpoint has led to a book that will be beneficial to those readers who want to know more about this remarkable man. It is called "A Stolen Life: Searching for Richard Pierpoint" and is published by Natural Heritage.

Rating:
Summary: history, family conflict, and racism
Review: William Bell has written an excellent book that is a good introduction to racism and family conflict. His ability to weave historical events into his stories is sure to pique the interest of young teens. Bell's message is that history is about people, rather than just dates and facts. It doesn't have to be boring.

Rating:
Summary: Fantastic book for young adults searching for their roots!
Review: Zack is a teen who feels connected to his Father's Romanian Jewish heritage, but confused about "the family mystery." That is, his black mother never discusses her family background or why Zack has never met or learned about her side of the family. He searches out his black roots after tracing the history of an African slave whose personal items he dug up on their Canadian property. The book touches upon issues of racial identity, prejudice, family secrets and the damage that unresolved issues can cause. Zach is comfortable with himself and his parents which was refreshing to me, as many biracial kids are represented as being bitter and confused. I bought this book as part of my own research into what it will be like raising a biracial daughter. I gained some insight into what I could do to encourage her self-esteem and pride. I was also impressed with the literary quality of Bell's work. I believe this is a must-read for not only biracial teens, but their parents, teachers and classmates.

Rating:
Summary: interesting
Review: Zack is the story of a biracial guy by the name of Zack, For a school project he decide to go to the south to find his black grandfather, who his mother hasen't been in touch with since her marriage of Zach's white Jewish father. When Zach find's his grandfather he realize why he and his mother hasn't been in contact. I felt there was something missing, and that more research should have been done.