Synopsis
Orphaned and homeless, twelve-year-old Chipper Carey is a street-wise gang member in 1890s New York City, until a con man introduces him to a wealthy woman who is seeking her ...
VOYA
Set in the 1890s, Chipper's story is a terrific read. Orphaned at the age of six and beaten by his guardians, Chipper had no choice but to run away, learning to live on the streets of New York City. Chipper is now twelve years old and a member of the Midnight Rats street gang—a group of kids who pickpocket and pilfer to stay alive. While trying to fulfill yet another of his gang leader's faulty schemes, Chipper seemingly is befriended by a con man named Patch. Patch sees physical similarities between Chipper and a dead wealthy man. He involves Chipper in a complex scheme to extort money from the man's family by pretending that Chipper is the man's long-lost son. Chipper becomes torn by his loyalty to the gang members who have protected him and the wealthy family who is so kind to him. The ending seems predictable but will be a delightful surprise to many readers. Collier, celebrated author of My Brother Sam Is Dead (Simon & Schuster, 1984), leaks out the story slowly, keeping the reader just ahead of the endearingly naïve main character. Although most supporting characters are stereotypical, Chipper becomes a friend. Readers sense his confusion at being pulled in so many directions, relate to his feeling like an outsider, and celebrate when in the end he chooses to be true to himself. Young teens will enjoy the adventurous life on the street and the attempt to stay one step ahead of the unfolding story. This title is recommended for public libraries and middle school collections. VOYA CODES: 4Q 4P M J (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Broad general YA appeal; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9). 2001, MarshallCavendish, 144p, $14.95. Ages 12 to 15. Reviewer: Julie Roberts SOURCE: VOYA, August 2001 (Vol. 24, No. 3)