The Road to Paris

Title: The Road to Paris

 

Author: Nikki Grimes

 

Summary: Young Paris and her brother Malcom have been protecting each other while living in the foster system. One day, they get separated - Malcom is sent to a boys foster home and Paris is sent to live with another foster family; the Lincoln family. Paris is scared and upset at first; she misses her brother very much. The Lincolns are very nice, but Paris, with previous experiences with bad foster homes, finds it hard to trust them.

As the days and weeks pass, Paris begins to adjust to life with the Lincolns; she makes friends at school and gets along nicely with her foster siblings. There are a few bumps in the road, with one of Paris's friend's family turning out to be prejudiced against her (the family is "white" and Paris is not). However, Paris does make another good friend.

Then, one day, she is invited by her mother to come back home; her mother is ready for Paris and Malcom to come back to her and start a better life. Paris doesn't have to go, so she has to make the tough decision on what to do.

 

Comments: I really liked this book! It won an award for a reason! I think it would be a fine read for somewhat mature children 8+. There is some account of the harsh behaviors Paris and her brother were previously subjected to before the book took place. I would consider this book to be a good pre-read to One for the Murphys - another favorite of mine that is quite similar.

Paris is likeable and a very strong character and the end of the book is surprising.

 

Complaints: It was a little short and it seemed to pass by very quickly - however that could be a plus for the younger or reluctant reader!

 

Rating: 5 stars