In the first of this three-part series, a child named Carnikko is born into dire poverty and raised by an over-zealous religious mother and an alcoholic non-believing father. Life is hard in the backwoods, especially when there's little to eat and no coal for the stove. Carnikko is taught to believe in the power of prayer, and when that doesn't seem to be enough to help her with the trials and tribulations she faces, she turns to an invisible companion called Purple Angel. Her young life is incredibly difficult as she constantly deals with hunger, inadequate clothing, ridicule at school, and the constant fear that each time her father leaves for an extended period of time, he might not come back. As bad as things are for the young child, things can always get worse, and unfortunately for her, they do. A tragedy of epic proportions comes crashing down into the center of her life, changing everything, and setting her on a completely different
I am so picking this book up.
ReplyDeleteAh, thanks so much, Marlena :)
ReplyDeleteLola's story is told with sensitivity to anyone who has felt like an outcast, wished to be as pretty, popular, and confident as those around them. The teen years are defined by a need for learning who we truly are. We do this by the process of comparison. How do I measure up to everyone else, where do I fit in, why am I different, and perhaps most importantly, how do people see me? For some, the answer is clear. They see disgust in people's eyes. Ppeople turn away. Worst of all, they see the need that some people have to inflict pain. They conclude - if that is how people see me, then I'd rather not be seen at all. One can't help but be moved by Lola's literal expression of that commonly felt desire.
ReplyDeleteEven so, Lola's story is anything but depressing. In the first couple of pages, we see sparks of moxie as she lifts her chin and strides into the sunshine, hairy legs, bulging belly and all. There is a suggestion of inner strength, which Lola taps as her story progresses. Her strength is fortified by her relationship with her grandmother who accepts Lola unconditionally and provides the anchor she needs. That connection is even more poignant when seen in the light of Lola's immediate family - her pretty, petite mother, her slim, good-looking father, and her beauty-obsessed sister, none of whom know the real Lola. It isn't their fault. Lola has never trusted them enough to open up and reveal herself. Her grandmother offers the richest, most fulfilling relationship in Lola's life.