"Where I'd Like to Be" by Frances O' Roark Dowell is a children's novel aimed at 9-14 year olds, particularly girls.
The book centers around narrator Maddie and her experiences living in East Tennessee Children's Home. The arrival of a new girl, calling herself Murphy, to the home one day has an instant impact upon Maddie who immediately feels a sense of affection and friendship towards her. The two swap stories of their pasts, Maddie's story of abandonment paling in comparison to the tragic death of Murphy's parents. The two, along with some other children from the home, decide to build a house in a school friend's backyard, sensing a need to create a new family; a 'safe haven'.
The status quo is disturbed somewhat one day, when a woman asking for Murphy (calling her Emily) visits the home, later taking her away. Murphy denies knowing the woman, but it soon transpires that it is her mother and that Murphy had told lies about her past. Maddie realizes this was for self-preservation, rather than to hurt anyone. The remaining group are left to ponder their own difficult lives and concerns over Murphy's future. Soon enough, Maddie becomes a strong candidate for adoption, and hope is on the horizon.
If you are thinking of reading the book, some reviews obtained from its readers have said;
The book centers around narrator Maddie and her experiences living in East Tennessee Children's Home. The arrival of a new girl, calling herself Murphy, to the home one day has an instant impact upon Maddie who immediately feels a sense of affection and friendship towards her. The two swap stories of their pasts, Maddie's story of abandonment paling in comparison to the tragic death of Murphy's parents. The two, along with some other children from the home, decide to build a house in a school friend's backyard, sensing a need to create a new family; a 'safe haven'.
The status quo is disturbed somewhat one day, when a woman asking for Murphy (calling her Emily) visits the home, later taking her away. Murphy denies knowing the woman, but it soon transpires that it is her mother and that Murphy had told lies about her past. Maddie realizes this was for self-preservation, rather than to hurt anyone. The remaining group are left to ponder their own difficult lives and concerns over Murphy's future. Soon enough, Maddie becomes a strong candidate for adoption, and hope is on the horizon.
If you are thinking of reading the book, some reviews obtained from its readers have said;
- "Great book, especially for young girls in their search for self... I certainly encourage young girls to read the book, as well as their parents. I think it will lead to more understanding on both sides"
- "After reading one page, you're hooked. Makes you feel lucky to live in a home. Children ages 8 to 18 will definitely enjoy this book. Definitely best children's book material. Frances O' Roark Dowell did an awesome job. I give it two thumbs up!"
