Nothing to Fear (Gulliver Books)

I read this book three years ago, when I was [...], and I really enjoyed it. I had a very basic idea what the Great Depression was, but I didn't really know. Now, I'm reading it again. I've read it before and can understand it more, and it really is an outstanding book. It's well written, filled with dialogue and conflict, and provided me with different people's points of view on the Great Depression. Now that I'm older, I know what it is, and how it happened, but that actually made the book lose some of it's sparkle. It's still a great book and I would recommend it to anyone 8-12 who wants an insight on the Great Depression through the eyes of a young boy. I would also recommend it to anyone who likes adventure, friendship, and a good read.

Danny Garvey and his family are trying to deal with the hardships of going through the Great Depression. Danny's dad Daniel Garvey decides to leave to look for work because Danny's family doesn't have enough money to support themselves. Weeks pass and Danny, his mother, and, sister wait for a letter from Daniel. Danny's family eventually becomes very close to the Riley family because of the absence of Daniel. Christmas comes and Danny hopes that his dad will make it home for Christmas. Danny's dad doesn't show up and Danny's family is very disappointed. Months go by and there is still no word from Daniel. Then Danny learns that his mother is pregnant and as weeks go by she becomes very sick. Danny's family meets a guy named Hank and he is the one who cares for Danny's sick mother. Danny's mother eventually goes into a coma and Danny finds a letter that tells him that Daniel died. Then one week passes and Danny's mom awakes from the coma and marries Hank. They then have a grand funeral for Danny's dad as the Great Depression finally subsides. This story's setting is in the neighborhoods of New York City. It is a poor neighborhood and the people do not have any hope of surviving the depression. This story takes place for about a year. I would recommend this story to anyone because it teaches you a great amount on how people's lives were affected in the Great Depression. This story will make you appreciate the things you take advantage of in life. You should read this book because it is so interesting and is funny at times. This story is very heartbreaking but is one of the most heartwarming stories. I enjoyed this story so much.

I loved this book. It made me think about my mother who grew up Irish in New York City in the 20's and 30's. I gave it to her to read and she also found it very touching and close to home. Thankyou Jackie French Koller for writing this book.

Set in New York City, the story tells about Danny Garvey and his family's struggles to get enough to eat and keep a roof over their heads. For me this was a one session I couldn't put it down read. The author has a terrific ear for dialogue, and I found myself really caring about these characters. The book is sad and funny in parts and is unblinking in its depiction of how the Depression affected the lives of people. The author gives details about things like Hoovervilles (shantytowns) and the hope with which people greeted the election of Roosevelt as well as weaving a good story. A book that would lend itself to great class discussions.Wonderful descriptions of daily life in 1932- I felt as though I were there.

Kollor made a story that touched me deeply and opened my sensitive side with me weep at the horrorfying ending. But I also cried tears for joy that Danny was a grown man and learned to deal with hardship. This book shows us a way into the depression unlike most others telling what was happening.