Blossom Promise, A - Hardcover

Byars, Betsy

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0385295782 ISBN 13: 9780385295789

Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers, 1987

Synopsis

In the aftermath of a big flood in Alderson County, the Blossom family continues coping in their rare family style.

About this title

Reviews

Grade 4-7 The last of the four books about the Blossom family begins on a high note. Junior is waiting for Pap to take him to spend the night with Mad Mary (from The Blossoms Meet the Vulture Lady Delacorte, 1986); Pap is out with his dog, Mud, happily inspecting the results of ``the worst flood in the state's history.'' Junior's older brother, Vern, and his friend are getting ready to launch their pride and joy, a homemade raft, while his sister, Maggie, is ready to make her debut on the rodeo circuit as a ``Wrangler Rider.'' Although disaster strikes on several fronts, it is their grandfather's heart attack that is the biggest challenge and the event that motivates Maggie to make a solemn Blossom promise that involves the whole family. Frequently switching point of view from one group of characters to another somewhat slows down the action, but Byars' strong writing style and highly individualistic characters will hold readers firmly. Those who know about this gutsy, captivating family will get the full impact of this welcome finale. New fans will be motivated to start at the beginning. Amy Kellman, Carnegie Lib . of Pittsburgh
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

The hard-living Blossom family is back in this last title of a remarkable quartet. All the children are anticipating something: Maggie is about to perform with her mother in the rodeo, Vern is preparing to launch a raft on the flooded Snake River and Junior has packed for an overnight stay with his friend Mad Mary in her cave. Then several simultaneous disasters strike, which sorely test the family but also strengthen it. The first half of the book sets up the action in short, alternating chapters focused on individual characterseven the dogs, Mud and Dump. After this long beginning, the plot takes flight, ending hopefully and joyously. Readers will find it hard to bid farewell to this eccentric, exuberant family. Illustrations not seen by PW. Ages 9-12.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
• Publication date: 1987
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0385295782
• ISBN 13: 9780385295789
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 145