Lily's Crossing facts for kids
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| Author | Patricia Reilly Giff |
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| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Realistic fiction |
| Publisher | Delacorte Press |
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Publication date
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1997 |
| Media type | |
| Pages | 208 |
| ISBN | 9780385321426 |
Lily's Crossing is a 1997 novel for young adults by American author Patricia Reilly Giff. It earned a Newbery Honor award in 1998, recognizing its excellence in children's literature.
Contents
About the Story
Lily's Crossing takes place in the United States during the 1940s. The story follows two children, Lily and Albert, as they learn to cope with sadness and help each other through a memorable summer.
Lily's Summer Changes
Lily lives in St. Albans, Queens with her father and grandmother. Her mother passed away when Lily was very young. Every summer, Lily and her father, whom she calls Poppy, visit her grandmother's house in Far Rockaway. This special place is near the Atlantic Ocean, and Lily loves exploring the neighborhood. She usually spends her summer days with her friend, Margaret, chatting and watching movies. Lily also has a habit of telling lies, which she sometimes finds fun, but knows she needs to change.
This particular summer in 1944 feels different. World War II is happening in Europe, and it begins to affect Lily's world. Her father must go overseas to serve in the war. Her friend Margaret is also moving to Detroit with her family, as her father will work on planes there. Lily feels a bit lost and needs to find a new friend.
A New Friend, Albert
Lily soon meets a new boy named Albert Orban. At first, Lily follows Albert around, which makes him feel uncomfortable and keeps him distant. However, a series of events brings them together, and they become friends. Albert is a refugee from Hungary who had to leave his home because of the war and the dangerous situation there. He dreams of reuniting with his family one day and isn't very interested in making new friends.
While Poppy is away, Lily's grandmother, Gram, worries about him because she cannot contact him easily. Lily also starts to understand more about the war. Lily becomes a strong support for Albert, who feels alone with his family so far away. She wants to help him through his difficult time by taking him on new adventures. Albert even learns to swim, which helps him trust Lily more.
Helping Each Other Through Hard Times
Albert slowly begins to share stories about his life in Hungary with Lily. Lily notices his voice sounds restless when he talks about his past. Albert has a sister named Ruth whom he is desperate to find. She was left behind because she had measles, and they couldn't escape together. Albert is determined to find Ruth and bring her to safety.
Important Ideas in the Book
The book explores several important ideas, showing how characters grow and learn.
Learning to Be Honest
Lily often struggles with telling the truth. Her habit of lying sometimes causes problems in her life. This journey of learning to be honest is a key part of her character's growth.
The Power of Friendship
Lily and Albert develop a deep friendship. Even though they are very different, they manage to help each other during a tough period. Albert initially found it hard to communicate with Lily. However, their friendship grew strong, and they learned to trust each other deeply.
Family and Hope During Wartime
Family is very important to both Lily and Albert. Lily's father and grandmother are a huge part of her life. When her father leaves for the war, her life changes completely. Having lost her mother at a young age, Lily often looks for new friends and connections. Albert became separated from his family because of the war. His parents faced great danger and were lost during the war because they bravely spoke out against injustice. Albert feels a sense of guilt for escaping and being separated from his family. His only remaining family member is his sister, Ruth, whom he hopes to find.
Lily also finds it hard to accept that her father went to war. She often talks about him with Albert. Margaret's brother is also serving in the war, and Lily worries about his safety, knowing that many soldiers were lost in the conflict.
Awards and Recognition
- Newbery Medal Honor Book in 1998.
- ALA Notable Children's Book in 1998.
- A Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Book.
- 1999 – Arkansas Charlie May Simon Master List.
- 1999 – Kentucky Bluegrass Master List.
- 1998 – Maine Student Book Master List.
- 1999 – Massachusetts Children's Book Master List.
