El Lector is an historical novel set in the hispanic community of Ybor City in Tampa, FL in 1931. The story revolves around a family steeped in cigar rolling business that was a crucial part of Tampa's economy. Central to the story, and the culture, is The Lector, a man whose job it was to read to the cigar rollers all day as they worked. Bella, the teen-aged granddaughter of the current Lector, is coming of age in a tumultuous era. The advent of the radio seems to pose a threat to her family and the culture of the Lector, while labor issues are wreaking havoc in the community, as well.
Durbin does an excellent job of painting a picture of the hispanic immigrant community in Depression Era Tampa, as well as tell an engaging story of family, culture, and the need and ability to change.
Recommended grade levels: 4th-8th.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
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2 comments:
I need to be persuaded that this is a best book. I did think it was an interesting time period in history with a good story but when I hold it next to Carbone's Blood on the River as historical fiction I really find it lacking. I wanted a map. I wanted more context to situate the economics and culture in history. Someone else should read this because I do think it's a unique offering and it might be a best book from 2006. I'm not convinced to give it a second.
I agree with you Sue. It does give us an interesting piece of history, but I do not think it stands out!
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