Synopses & Reviews
Heartfelt and funny, this novel-in-letters set during World War II introduces a winning heroine who learns to cope with the loss of her father - with a loyal heart, an independent attitude, and an unforgettable way with words.Dear Papa,
Mama got a job! I hope you dont turn over in your grave like she says. We all tried to eat a little less but that doesnt pay the electric bill, she says. It was expensive for you to go to the hospital, and then to be buried besides really added up. (Not that we blame you!)
Nine-year-old Isabelle and her class are learning how to write letters, and its a good thing, too - for she has a lot to write to Papa about after he dies. First of all, her cat ran away; then her older sisters, Irma and Inez, both got boyfriends; little Ida hardly remembers Papa at all; and brother Ian is just plain mad to be left with a house full of females. As for Mama, ever since she sold Papas filling station and got a job cleaning houses, shes always tired with a capital "T."
But theres something much worse: Mamas family wants her to ship Isabelle off to live with her none-too-favorite aunt and uncle, to help lighten the load for Mama at home. Now who will be there to stop little Ida from calling Mamas new boss "Papa"?
Synopsis
In September of 1943, one year after her father's death, nine-year-old isabelle begins writing him letters, wich are interspersed with letters to other members of her family, relating important events in her life and how she feels about them.
About the Author
Anne Ylvisaker (pronounced ILL visoccer) has published essays and magazine articles for adults, as well as nonfiction books for children. She taught elementary school for twelve years and holds a masters in education. She says, "A few years ago my aunt told me about a lost childhood letter shed written to her father just before he died. That lost letter consumed my imagination. The letter was never found, so I made up my own, and that was the beginning of DEAR PAPA." DEAR PAPA is Anne Ylvisakers first novel.