Brief reviews and thoughts about children's and young adult books by Minnesota authors (or illustrators), or about Minnesota. If I get the urge, it may also include ideas for using the books in the classroom. The emphasis is on books published since 1995, but don't be surprised if an oldie-but-goodie slips in occasionally.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Through No Fault of My Own
This is the diary of thirteen-year-old "Coco" Irving, the daughter of Horace and Clotilde Irving, socialites who lived on Summit Avenue in St. Paul in the early 1900's. Coco loved to write, and also get in trouble. Her diary entries frequently begin with the words "through no fault of my own..." The diary recounts one year of Coco's adventures, romances, and youthful problems.
Coco's writing has been published previously; this new edition is from the University of Minnesota Press and includes an introduction by Peg Meier and historical photographs.
Coco and her sister Olivia donated the family home to the state of Minnesota in 1965, and it became the Minnesota Governor's Residence.
This is a fascinating peak inside early 20th century life on Summit Avenue from a young person's perspective.
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