In this book, we get Cecile's side of the story. Cecile is a spunky little free POC that is Marie-Grace's best friend. She's the one that brings forth M-G's braver and less shy side, and deeply shapes who M-G is as a person.-------- We once again see them meet at Mademoiselle Oceane's vocal classes. But, this does not talk about the all-girls school later on, as Cecile is not a member of that, however we do still get the wonderful story of the Mardi Gras switch.-------- And, in addition, we get a wonderful story of a brother, Armand, who is a sailor presently stationed in France, but set to return home soon. Much as CeCe loves Armand, she can't help but feel that all the attention is going to his return instead of her now, and she kinda dislikes that. But, she would never say so. When Armand returns, Cecile is shy toward him, mostly because he looks and sounds different. He has grown up during his years away, but she is still the first to recognize him. Soon, things are much as before between them. During the family's prayers at a cathedral nearby, Armand calls CeCe out to present her with a present. It's a beautiful porcelain doll that she quickly recognizes as herself. Armand also reveals a special secret before he returns inside to get the package she promised him.--------- While Armand is inside, Marie-Grace comes by, asking her to keep a secret. Cecile tells her Armand is back, and M-G gives her a note asking to meet before lessons, and runs off. What is this secret? Will Cecile be able to keep BOTH secrets? It was an interesting insight into Louisiana and New Orleans life in the 1850's, especially since I have family connections to the state. The only problem I have is that I wonder about the historical accuracy. The whole setting is something quite new to me. I want to learn more about it, what it was really was like there.I have a problem with the plot, though. The girls switch places at a masked ball. I don't believe it's entirely impossible, as they had mainly candlelight back then, and the costume could have been more covering that I think, but it just seem implausible that it would have been pulled off like it. ;/
What do You think about Meet Cécile (2011)?
I loved it, like all the American Girl Books! I loved how the same story was told by both sides.
—farah
