Because Paterson is from Barre, VT, just down the road from where I live, I've been reading her books. This novel is based on Paterson’s meeting and relating to a Balkan family who had moved to Barre. Her story traces an Albanian family’s journey from the Balkans to Vermont, using the teen daughter as the narrator. Once again, Paterson has done her homework and helped young readers connect with a part of the world and circumstances they would not experience otherwise. Oh, the joy of reading! This was an interesting novel about an Albanian Kosovar who is affected by the violence in Kosovo in the 1990's and immigrates to the United States. Although I was alive during the time of the Kosovo War and heard much about it in the news, it is something I did not understand well until reading this short novel. In addition to the historical data, it is also a good story in its own right exploring themes of war, resentment, hatred, and forgiveness. The book is written with an intended audience of 9 - 14 year olds, and therefore, does not go into harsh themes on a deep level, but I still got a lot out of it and recommend it to tweens, teens, and adults.
What do You think about The Day Of The Pelican (2009)?
It was fantastic story that spoke of life's hardships while adding a historical aspect to it
—Janae
The names were a little confusing but if you look past that, you see a great book.
—kaoutar
Absolutely fabulous! I loved everything about this book!
—ethel
