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DREAM AND WONDER: A CHILD'S VIEW OF CANADIAN VILLAGE LIFE.

Redekopp, Elsa.

Illustrated by Margaret Quiring, Winnipeg, Kindred Press, c1986. 119pp. paper, $6.95, ISBN 0-919797-44-X. Distributed by Kindred Press, 4-169 Riverton Ave., Winnipeg, Man., R2L 2E5.

Grades 3-5
Reviewed by Janet E. Goldack

Volume 14 Number 5
1986 September


Lisa, a young Mennonite girl, who loves secrets, surprises, and spelling bees, lives with her immigrant family in Gnadenthal on the southern Manitoba prairie. Rescued from the harsh communist regime in the Ukraine by the Mennonite Central Committee, the family struggles to maintain the traditions of the Mennonite community, adapt to the strangeness of the new land, and repay their Immigration Debt to the C.P.R. This well-written story with a happily-ever-after type plot, gives the reader an insight into a typical Mennonite home, where sex roles are clearly defined. Lisa observes these living patterns, wonders at the necessity for them, and. at the story's end. in apparent defiance oftradition, learns to play the violin, unheard of for a girl. Her loving family shields her. but encourages her to face the problems of growing up and to enjoy life to the fullest.

Because of its strong Mennonite influence, this twenty-four chapter classic, sequel to Wish and Wonder*, by Redekopp, southern Manitoba author, musician, and teacher, may not have strong acceptance in other areas of Canada. However, the concepts of love, respect, trust, and affection are universal in appeal. The detailed map, the activity-filled illustrations, and the realistic content make this publication of definite value in a social studies unit on Canadian communities.


Janet E. Goldack, Grant Park H.S., Winnipeg, Man.

*Reviewed vol. XI/4 July 1983 p.155.

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