Finest Kind

Finest Kind is a example of using historic facts in a novel to create a great story that also teaches history (I think John Jakes would approve). I bought it for my grandaughter for Christmas. Before I wrapped it I sat down and began reading it. Three hours later, I finished the book! A delightful way to spend a cold winter afternoon!

Jake Webber moves from Boston with his parents. Their fortunate life dissolved due to the Panic of 1837. Their cousin promises Jake father a job at the mill in town and find them a dilapidated home to live in. Jake meets some people in the area and attempts to make sure he, his mother and brother with severe cerebral palsy to eat while his father lives in town to work. Jake learns much about getting food and preparing extras for the winter. The occurrences during the events of the book indicate Jake to be a brave and intelligent young man. The story relates about the new boy in the area and hiding secrets within a family. Due to others in Boston being frightened and misunderstandings about Jake's brother, the family hides the brother from others. The mother handles the disabled boy overwhelmed by many seizures mostly by herself but with some assistance from Jake. Many children born with disabilities were hidden during this era and throughout history.

Having a special needs child myself, I could relate a lot to this book. It was an interesting read, as it is historical, and fast yet not TOO fast. I haven't read a YA book in years, so this was great to read. Very well written. Thoroughly enjoyed this book! Gorgeous cover, too.

This is the best kind of historical fiction--convincing, compelling, and enlightening. The reader comes away, not only with a better understanding of mid-19th century American life, but also a better understanding and appreciation of life today. Highly recommended.