DUST FROM OLD BONES

Author (last name first): Forrester, Sandra

Publisher, Date of Publication: Morrow

Pages:

Grade Level/ or Age Level: 5-9

Classification: Fiction

DUST FROM OLD BONES is written in diary form by a thirteen- year-old girl. Simone Marguerite Racine is of mixed blood and is the child of free persons of mixed rase in 1838 New Orleans. In her diary we learn of her increasing understanding of the societal structure of pre-Civil War New Orleans. Simone's father is a stonemason. both of Simone's brothers work for him. The elder son, Gabriel, is unhappy but has no other choice but stay with his father. His father says Gabriel is gifted. The younger brother is Celeste- Tin Tin. He cannot wait to have a chisel and mallet in his hands. Simone's beautiful cousin, Clare-Marie cannot wait to attend a quad roon ball so that she may also have a protector. Delphine, Tante Vivienne and Tante Madelin, who arrives from Paris after being away for many years. Simone sees a slave auction and is very traumatized. Then she learns that her Tante Vivienne's two slaves must be sold. Simone helps them escape through the underground railroad to Canada. This novel is filled with humor, sadness and provides a greater understanding of the free and enslaved citizen of pre- Civil War New Orleans.

Reviewer: Deanna Schroeder