The Memory Coat

This moving story of a Jewish family's immigration to American from Russia may be jeopardized by a young cousin's bond with a worn-out coat.At the turn-of-the century, a Jewish family must leave Russia when the Cossacks raid the country. Grandma Bubba tries to convince Grisha, her grandson, to leave behind an old coat that might prevent him from being accepted at Ellis Island upon the family's arrival in America. Grisha refuses since the coat is lined with wool from the coat of his deceased mother. The family begins their transatlantic journey, but when they arrive at Ellis Island, Grisha is threatened with deportation until his cousin Rachel comes up with a plan to save him. Woodruff's historical detail is based on research she discovered at the Ellis Island museum.A fine introduction to European immigration for young readers ages four to eight. A moving example of familial love.

Author: Elvira Woodruff
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Published: 03/01/1999
Pages: 32
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.02lbs
Size: 11.36h x 10.15w x 0.35d
ISBN: 9780590677172
Audience: Ages 4-8

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 4.8
Point Value: 0.5
Interest Level: Lower Grade
Quiz #/Name: 46333 / Memory Coat


Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 01/18/1999 pg. 339
Booklist 01/01/1999 pg. 892
Kirkus Review - Children 01/01/1999 pg. 73
School Library Journal 03/01/1999 pg. 188
Hornbook Guide to Children 01/01/1999 pg. 287 - Marginal, Seriously Flawed
Hornbook Guide to Children 07/01/1999 pg. 287 - Marginal, Seriously Flawed

About the Author
The bestselling author of GEORGE WASHINGTON'S SOCKS and THE RAVENMASTER'S SECRET, Woodruff has written more than twenty books for children, including picture books, historical fiction, and lighthearted fantasy. Her numerous school visits each year are popular with kids and teachers. The sequel to GEORGE WASHINGTON'S SOCKS, GEORGE WASHINGTON'S SPY, will be published in November 2010. She lives with her family in Martin's Creek, Pennsylvania.