Synopses & Reviews
With no parents and no home, Camilla's weekend visits to the silent movie house with her auntie offer escape from an otherwise bleak existence. The other down-and-outers -- Boxcar Betty, Fingers Freddy, Toots, and Two-Time Tommy -- collect pennies so Camilla and her aunt can live the enchanted lives of the people who illuminate the mighty screen -- if only for an hour or so.
With nostalgia and grace, Dandi Daley Mackall weaves an eloquent tale of hope and perseverance in the face of misfortune, of the will to survive by living through one's dreams, but above all, the valor of the human spirit. Karen Jerome perfectly captures the silent movie era with startlingly poignant images that reflect the vitality and joy of mankind, even in the face of adversity.
Synopsis
Camilla has no parents and no home, but she and her auntie find escape and happiness in their weekly visits to the silent movie house. The other down-and-outers--Boxcar Betty, Fingers Freddy, Toots, and Two-time Tommy--help Camilla and her aunt experience the enchantment of the silent screen. Camilla then shares the silent movie stories with these friends who give her the pennies needed to get into the movies. Dandy Daley Mackall unfolds a tale reflecting the kindness of community in the face of misfortune and the healing power of story. And Karen Jerome's soft watercolors poignantly capture both the silent movie era and the courage and perseverance of the human spirit.