I fictionalized story based on the author's grandfather, an Italian Jew who came to America alone as a child at the turn of the century. Describes his difficulty in finding his way in a new land though he was without money and unable to speak English. He is able to survive and eventually prosper on the mean streets of New York City. An interesting historical novel - not just for young readers. I recommend it anyone interested in Italian or Jewish immigrants. A well written and fast paced story.
In the 1800s, a 9-year-old Italian Jewish boy stows away on a ship to New York, and works his way up from homeless and penniless to supporting himself and the friends he works with on the street. Although this is listed as being for 9-12 year-olds, I would hesitate to give it to children younger than 12, as it contains some horrific scenes, including a child beaten to death for running away from his padrone.
