A Difficult Boy by M.P. BarkerIt is 1839 and nine-year-old Ethan finds himself an indentured servant working for Mr. Lyman, a mean-spirited shopkeeper in Massachusetts. When Ethan and another young servant are beaten by Mr. Lyman, the two boys find out what it takes to be a friend.
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4 comments:
...a memorable tale of friendship and a fascinating glimpse into mid-19th-century Massachusetts...
I almost stopped reading this book as I think it starts out bit slow, but DON'T stop reading as it gets better and better and you will find it VERY hard to put down. I think this is a wonderful story about 2 boys Ethan and Daniel, who form a difficult friendship under very stressful circumstances. I think this story is great for 10 - 12 year olds. It has sadness, joy, suspense, friendship, intrigue, and a horse. I guarantee you will feel good when you finish this one!
I give this one 5 *****'s.
This is my first 5 star book of the season, great job Ms. Barker.
This is a great historical story about a friendship between two boys who are indentured servants to an abusive, dishonest man. I liked the characters, especially Paddy, and the way he is able to endure his master's abuse, refusing to let it destroy his spirit. The book is disturbing in parts, but it has an ending that makes you feel good. 4 1/2 ****
I agree heartily with the above opinions about the great characterizations in the novel. For me, another one of it’s charms is the capture of the rhythms of life and of the subtle aspects of class-driven relationships in that time and place and how the author uses them to illustrate the timelessness of issues like family, loyalty, and finding your own identity. Bravo, Ms Barker! May we have another?
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