Pick-Up Sticks (novel) facts for kids
1992 first paperback edition
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| Author | Sarah Ellis |
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| Country | Canada |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's novel |
| Publisher | Douglas & McIntyre |
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Publication date
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1991 |
| Media type | |
| Pages | 124 pp |
| ISBN | 9780888991461 |
| OCLC | 24215264 |
Pick-Up Sticks is a children's novel written by Canadian author Sarah Ellis. This book won the Governor General's Award for Children's Literature in 1991. The story is told through the eyes of Polly, a thirteen-year-old girl. She faces big changes when she loses her home and her comfortable way of life. Sarah Ellis shared that she was inspired to write the book after hearing about a woman who had lost her home.
Contents
What Happens in Pick-Up Sticks?
Polly's Life Before the Change
The story begins by showing Polly's calm and happy life. She spends her time going to school, helping others after school, and playing the French horn. Her small, cozy room has a beautiful stained glass window that her mother made. This window shows how perfect her life seems.
Polly has a close relationship with her mother. Her friends include her downstairs neighbors, Ms. Protheroe and her son Ernie. Ernie enjoys watching old TV shows like Gilligan’s Island and collecting postal codes. Polly's best friend, Vanessa, is often focused on herself. She sometimes comes up with silly plans, especially when she likes someone.
A Big Change for Polly
Polly's world suddenly changes when she learns that her house will be sold and torn down. Her mother cannot find a new place for them to live. This big change makes Polly wonder about who she is and where she truly belongs. She starts to think about why her mother raised her without a father. Polly begins to wish for a father figure to make their lives easier.
As Polly struggles with these feelings, her relationship with her mother becomes difficult. They argue, and Polly sometimes blames her mother for their problems.
Living with Relatives
Polly moves in with her Uncle Roger, Auntie Barbie, and their daughter Stephanie. Polly finds Uncle Roger to be a bit cold and not very understanding, especially about people who are struggling or about her mother. Auntie Barbie seems to care a lot about expensive fitness classes and her appearance.
Polly's cousin Stephanie often acts out against her parents. One day, while with Stephanie, Polly sees her cousin doing some risky things. This makes Polly feel very upset. She jumps out of the car and runs to find her mother at the warehouse where she works.
Finding Her Way
At the warehouse, Polly finally talks openly with her mother. She learns more about her mother's past and why she chose to have Polly. Her mother also shares good news: she has found a new place for them to live.
Through all these experiences, Polly realizes something important. Even though they face financial challenges, she has a mother who loves her very much. Polly also starts to understand herself better and discovers who she is as a person.
Where Does the Story Take Place?
The story of Pick-Up Sticks is set in the suburbs of Vancouver, Canada. The city of Richmond is also mentioned. Richmond is part of the larger Vancouver area.
