Streets of Gold

by Marie Raphael, Jerry Sena

Book by Raphael, Marie

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Young Adult

216 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1998

Reviews

[Infosifter · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this middle grade book, the story of a Polish immigrant family at the turn of the 20th century. It features a strong female main character who is determined to choose her own path and not let others control her destiny.

[Classical Lady · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[QNPoohBear · Rating 4 out of 5]

In 1901 Marisia and her family live peacefully on a farm in Poland. Poland is under the czar's rule and Marisia's older brother Stefan is drafted into the Czar's army much to the dismay of her parents who have already lost one son to the Czar's army. When Stefan deserts and returns home, Marisia's Papa decides the family should go to America where the Czar's rule can't touch them. Their journey out of Poland is illegal and dangerous and once on board the ship there are more dangers as well as illness and injuries to contend with. Marisia befriends and older girl named Sofia, who is kind and beautiful, but her proud and tyrannical father has trained her to be a lady in order to marry a wealthy man and has his sights set on an American man. Unfortunately, Marisia's little sister Katrina is rejected at Ellis Island and Mama, Papa and the younger children have to return to Europe. Stephen will stay in America but Marisia must make a difficult decision - stay in America or go back with the rest of the family. Marisia decides to make her way in America with Stefen. She's strong and plucky but America isn't what she thought it would be. Circumstances draw Marisia and Sofia closer together and Sofia teaches Marisia how to be a lady and Marisia shows Sofia how to stand up to her father. When it finally seems like Marisia is going to accomplish her dreams, she is forced to make another tough decision about her future and hopes her natural grit and Sofia's lessons will help her make the right choice.

This isn't the most captivating immigrant story and the writing isn't very special but I liked the book because it's a little different from the typical Ellis Island novel. Little emphasis is placed on the journey and Ellis Island and the details of life in New York seem realistic. I was interested in the characters but found their insights a little corny. I liked Sofia and her story more than I enjoyed Marisia's story and wished for more about her. I recently visited Ellis Island and enjoyed being able to picture Marisia and her family passing through there.

[LibraryGoddess · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't actually read this, I listened to it on CD in my car as I drove around the city. I felt it would be a good book for children grades 5-10. The story was told in simple language, but described the immigrant experience very well. Older students and adults might prefer a book with more detail about some of the experiences and feelings the characters were faced with.

[Leilani · Rating 4 out of 5]

good book-definitely worth reading. About a girl who immigrates to the USA, and is then separated from her family. Descriptively written, enjoyable to read and insightful into the early days of the melting pot of NYC

[Lori Pitcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to this on tape while I was blind. I really enjoyed it. I fell asleep a few times, but that is to be expected while laying down in be with tons of covers. I thought it was a sweet book.

[Jeani · Rating 3 out of 5]

I felt like I was reading an autobiography. I enjoyed it and think this would be a great period piece for a classroom assignment.