PENNY FROM HEAVEN (genre 5 book 3)

Barbara Ann Falucci is called Penny after her father's favorite Bing Crosby song "Pennies from Heaven." Penny's world is that of many kids at eleven; summer dreams limited by her mom, a friend who keeps getting into trouble, and oddly endearing relatives. Her diverse family is divided by her father's death and words have been left unspoken. When Penny is injured in an accident, the old family wounds are reopened and she must try to repair her world.

This historical novel about an Italian American family in the 1950's is beautifully written by Jennifer L. Holm. Penny's relationships with her family of characters is enthralling such as her eccentric uncle who lives in his car and her hilarious cousin Frankie.  The authenticity of the time period is built upon Holm's own family history on whom the book is based. Children from divided families will connect with the theme of a child's desire to find her place. Other readers will also be drawn in by the enduring love of family and the desire to heal.


Review excerpts:
"Penny's present-tense narration is both earthy and observant, and her commentary on her families' eccentricities sparkles." -Kirkus Reviews

"Penny and her world are clearly drawn and eminently believable." - School Library Journal


Connections:
*Have students discuss how Penny's life is different than modern society, such as her wringer washing machine and listening to sports on the radio.

*Readers can research Italian American families of the 1950's and what was happening at that time in America.


Holm, Jennifer. 2006. Penny From Heaven. New York: Random House Children's Books.  ISBN 0375936874