Genevieve Graham

This was an interesting story of two very different sisters, the war time work they did during WWII, and the way the secrets one sister was forced to keep about her work affected their relationship. Ultimately, it was about the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood.

Despite being so different, Dot and Dash were both likeable characters, and I was glad that the breach between them did not last as long as I'd feared it might. Also, it was interesting to read about the work they did.

This would be a good read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, especially with a focus on Canada and/or WWII.

Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the early read.… (mer)

I didn’t know this story, a horrifying one for sure. Much like the unreported expulsion of all non-citizens and anyone with a Hispanic background in the US during the depression, there are nasty things not reported in our history books.
This makes Graham’s book vitally important. We need to have an accessible record of these historical mistakes/evils. Exporting children as slaves was both.

And this book is accessible. The writing is smooth, the characters are involving, the situations both realistic and horrifying. The book itself is perfect for young adult readers (and adult, but just broadening the catchment...). Though one situation involves a sexual situation, Graham carefully draws a veil over the actual events.

One of the lovely threads through the story is the long-term friendship, love, and loyalty between the characters. It is heartwarming, and I hope such ties did exist to support these isolated children. It’s also balancing to have some decent individuals reach out to help the youths, as I’m sure did happen.

Graham gives back stories to some characters that appear evil, describing the situation in which these families bought these children.

With the US government holding hundreds of children at the border (and adopting some out), this book about governments eagerly exporting their ‘problem’ individuals into toxic environments is a timely reminder of what can go wrong.

Please, may we have some more books from this author? Well worth a read, and highly recommended for those who want to know our history, even the shameful undersides.

… (mer)