Marvelous Middle Grade Monday
Stay, Girl (Crow & Pitcher Press, 2024) by Angelica R. Jackson was a compelling read.
It’s 1953 in Sacramento, CA and 13-year-old Bet’s dying mother makes her promise to go to her Uncle Earl. The moment Mom dies, Bet packs up a few things and steals hidden money from her crooked stepfather, and is on the run. She plans to only stay a few days with her uncle and then go on to Oregon, but a small injured dog needs some care, so Bet decides to stick around a bit longer.
I enjoyed the details of small town life in this story and was rooting for Bet to have a real home in Amberfields, CA. And, of course, the dogs were fun.
Besides being a writer, Angelica has also rescued some dogs, which you can read about here. Read about the author here and see her other novels here.
I like the California setting in 1953. I like historical fiction and will keep this one on my radar. Happy MMGM!
Good!
I have a soft-spot for historical fiction and the addition of the dog sounds lovely considering the theme of this one. I’m going to have to add it to my list.
I have another historical coming up, too!
Historical fiction set in the past 100 years is always a draw for me. I’ll be looking for this one. Happy MMGM!
This sounds intriguing. I’m especially intrigued by her rescuing dogs. I also have a rescue. Thanks for featuring this!
Great!
I admire how you succinctly tell us all about a book–I have such a hard time doing this. A book that girls and dog lovers will enjoy.
I have trouble writing long! *ha ha*
I’m glad Bet decides to stick around, saved by a dog (unsurprisingly!). I know it’s 1953 but I wouldn’t like to see a 13 year old on her own anywhere! 🙂 Sounds a good story and thanks for sharing!
No kidding about a 13-y-o on her own!
I was born in the 50s, so I am always interested in stories of the time. Dog lovers will definitely enjoy this story. I love Bet’s compassion.
Me too!
As another born in the 50s it’s weird to be ‘historical’, but this sounds good. And I’ll praise your succinctness as well!
Ha ha. But now they even talk about 80s being historical.
What a gorgeous cover, it just draws you in. Sounds like a wonderful book from your review. Thanks for sharing it today.
It is a nice cover!
Since I live near Sacramento, I should probably pick this one up. It sounds great. Thanks for telling me about it.
I didn’t realize that’s where you live! I have a friend in Roseville.
I’m a big dog-lover, so I’ll have to check out this book.
Cool!