Helpful Score: 4
In 1978, calling on experience with just such people as are in this book, classic children's author Katherine Paterson wrote this novel about a tough foster girl and how she learns the hard lessons of life. It will be well understood by todays older elementary school reader.
Helpful Score: 2
Although written over 30 years ago, THE GREAT GILLY HOPKINS will still be a cute read for the avid young reader, despite the fact that some aspects of the book, particularly the racist element, may be dated. Gilly is fiercely determined to hold on to her gruffness, which may delight young girls who love their anti-heroines. And yet she has a definite soft side, even though she may not want to admit it. I chuckled as Gillys attempts to stay cold and detached often backfired on her. Gilly comes from a time when racism is still latent, and so some of her reactions to people may be a little uncomfortable for us. Still, its important to note that the book itself isnt a racist book, and that over the course of the book Gilly grows. I have other juvenile fiction contemporary favorites out there, but this one isnt so bad.
Helpful Score: 2
I found this children's novel to be touching and quite enjoyable when I was younger. I feel the same way now, after reading it again as an adult. It is by the author of Bridge to Terabithia.
Helpful Score: 1
The one thing wants is a home of her own. If only she could find her mother and live with her. Instead she finds herself in yet another foster home. At first Gilly despises her new home but she learns to love everyone and is drawn into there circle of love.
Helpful Score: 1
Trophy Newbery; Winner of the National Book Award for Children's Literature; Book has won many awards.
This perceptive story draws strength from its finely delineated characters and rich, moving narrative.
This perceptive story draws strength from its finely delineated characters and rich, moving narrative.
I read this book years ago and loved it. Anyone thinking about getting into Foster Care or adopting an older child should like reading this book. Also a good book for teens to read to better understand peers who are foster children.
awesome book to read when you have some free time
Very Good Classic funny kids book.
Gilly Hopkins is a determined-to-be-unpleasant 11-year-old foster kid who the reader can't help but like by the end. Gilly has been in the foster system all her life, and she dreams of getting back to her (as she imagines) wonderful mother. (The mother makes these longings worse by writing the occasional letter.) Gilly is all the more determined to leave after she's placed in a new foster home with a "gross guardian and a freaky kid." But she soon learns about illusions--the hard way. This Newbery Honor Book manages to treat a somewhat grim, and definitely grown-up theme with love and humor, making it a terrific read for a young reader who's ready to learn that "happy" and "ending" don't always go together. (Ages 9 to 12)
Not one of my favorites.
Gilly Hopkins is a determined-to-be-unpleasant 11-year-old foster kid who the reader can't help but like by the end. Gilly has been in the foster system all her life, and she dreams of getting back to her (as she imagines) wonderful mother. (The mother makes these longings worse by writing the occasional letter.) Gilly is all the more determined to leave after she's placed in a new foster home with a "gross guardian and a freaky kid." But she soon learns about illusions--the hard way. This Newbery Honor Book manages to treat a somewhat grim, and definitely grown-up theme with love and humor, making it a terrific read for a young reader who's ready to learn that "happy" and "ending" don't always go together.
