New Historical Character Book 2

Children's Literature - Suzanna E. Henshon

Meet Cecile introduces a dynamic and intelligent young character to the "American Girl" series canon. Cecile Rey, a free African-American girl, lives in New Orleans in 1853. Cecile's family is wealthy and the young girl is used to luxuries including taking singing lessons and eating pralines. Cecile cannot wait until Mardi Gras, when she will attend a fancy ball. She meets a new friend, Marie-Grace, who has recently moved back to New Orleans with her widowed father. The two girls study opera with Mademoiselle Oceane. One day Cecile learns exciting news; her brother Armand, who lives in Paris, will return home in a few months. Cecile cannot wait to see her brother again—and when he arrives she is surprised to see how grown up he appears. Mardi Gras turns out to be an exciting event, and Cecile has the chance to attend two balls. In this unique series, readers can experience the events from the joint perspectives of two best friends. This unusual storytelling feature allows readers to step back in time through two identities, gaining a wider understanding of historical events. Reviewer: Suzanna E. Henshon, Ph.D.