Streets of Gold

Readers young and old will be moved by the struggles of young immigrant Marisia, a resilient and likable character whose journey from Poland to New York bears similarities to that of so many newcomers to the United States at the turn of the century. Most compelling is the way in which Marisia's artistic talent and her need to draw as a matter of emotional survival are interwoven into the story. The writing is rich with historical detail, characters are lively and well developed, and the story--except for the very beginning--moves along at a good pace. Ruth Ann Phimister's sensitive narration captures the drama and suspense while bringing intimacy and immediacy to this story of life one hundred years ago. A good story with a memorable character; the educational aspect is an added value. E.S. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine