Protecting Marie

Children's Literature
- Dr. Judy Rowen
Fanny's father is an artist who just turned sixty, much too old to understand a 12-year-old girl. At least that's what Fanny thinks. Fanny's father can be difficult when his painting isn't going well. Once, when he was especially happy with his work, he impetuously gave Fanny the gift that she really wanted, a dog to call her own. The puppy drove her father nuts, so he gave it away. Fanny nurtures the hurt this caused, refusing to trust her father. She sequesters her fears just as her father sequesters his love for her. Both father and daughter grow, and even the paintings reflect the new joy permeating the household.




School Library JournalGr 5-7-Frustration, love, and sensitivity underscore the dynamics of family life for Fanny Swann, 12, the main character in this absorbing, well-crafted novel.