Atheneum Books For Young Readers -- hcNew York -- ©2007 -- 244pp
ISBN-10: 1-4169-4972-0
An unlikely friendship develops between two precocious sixth graders as they unite to sort through the belongings of an eccentric, pretentious, and intriguing neighbor. Through old letters, parts of a memoir,the introduction to an art exhibit, and thumbnail biographies of the artists deemed unfit by the Nazis, readers are educated about this aspect of Nazi repression. Dramatic revelations about the victimization of homosexuals and other figures during the Holocaust also become part of the story. In spite of these necessary intrusions, readers will be eager to discover the truth about the Zenders and the suspicious art treasure. (edited from School Library Journal)
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I admire Konigsburg's writing and plotting, and her willingness to attack unlikely and even uncomfortable issues, but perhaps she's attempted too much with this book.
The art mystery here is intriguing (and much better than that from Chasing Vermeer), and Konigsburg does a wonderful job bringing together the storylines from many different directions. The idea of art stolen by Nazis and recently being rediscovered seems very topical. However, I felt that bringing together two families, from two different sides of the stolen art saga, was not only incredibly coincidental, but maybe had a theme ringing a little deeper than could be handled in even a mature YA book.
One drawback to having won two Newbery Medals is the perceived need to follow up with something, better, stronger, deeper. Yet perhaps rather than focusing on the issues, more attention could be paid to the characters and situations.
Not my favorite Konigsburg book, and not a recommended book.
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