Turtle in Paradise facts for kids
First edition
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| Author | Jennifer L. Holm |
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| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's literature |
| Publisher | Random House Children's Books |
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Publication date
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December 27, 2010 |
| Pages | 208 224 (paperback) |
| Awards | 2011 Newbery Honor Book |
| ISBN | 9780375836909 |
Turtle in Paradise is an exciting children's novel written by Jennifer L. Holm in 2010. This book earned a special award, becoming a Newbery Honor Book in 2011. It also won the Golden Kite Award. The story follows an eleven-year-old girl named Turtle. She lives in Key West, Florida, during a difficult time known as the Great Depression. The book also mentions a powerful storm, the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935.
The Story of Turtle in Paradise
The adventure in Turtle in Paradise happens during the Great Depression. This was a time in history when many people faced economic hardship. Turtle, who is eleven years old, lives with her mother and her cat, Smokey.
Turtle's New Home
Turtle's mother gets a new job, but her employer does not allow children or pets. So, Turtle and Smokey must move. Turtle is sent to live with her aunt and cousins in Key West, Florida. She says goodbye without tears and heads off to meet relatives she has never met before.
When Turtle first arrives, her Aunt Minnie is surprised. She had not received a letter from her sister about Turtle coming to stay. Aunt Minnie eventually agrees to let Turtle stay. Turtle moves into her cousin Beans' room, which makes him unhappy.
Meeting the Cousins
Turtle's cousins are a lively bunch. Beans is the oldest and gives Turtle a cold welcome. Kermit has a heart condition, so he needs to rest often. He cannot do very active things like running. Buddy is the youngest and sometimes has little accidents.
Life in Key West
Florida is completely different from anything Turtle has ever seen. It is hot and feels strange. The island is full of her energetic boy cousins, family secrets, and even talk of buried pirate treasure!
Turtle soon finds herself exploring this new world. She starts to come out of her shell, which she has built around herself over the years. As she does, her world opens up in surprising ways. Turtle in Paradise is full of adventure, humor, and heart. It is a story that both boys and girls will enjoy.
