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Book Reviews, Young Adult

THE TRADING GAME

 

 

THE TRADING GAME
FRAN SHAFF
ISBN#: 9781438201122
April 2008
Create Space
100 Enterprise Way, Suite A200, Scotts Valley, CA 95066
Trade Paperback
$12.95
158 Pages
Young Adult
Rating: 5 Cups

Salina Fulbright lives in a large house but never gets to have any fun. She wants an adventure to last a lifetime and meeting Lacey, her wish might come true.

Lacey Masterson takes care of Gina, her five-year-old sister. Referred to as street urchins, they have no home and live off the street grabbing anything they can to survive.

The streets of New York in 1890 does not always paint a pretty picture for some children. Lacey is forced to fend off rats and even bullies to protect her sister, Gina. With no parents, and living off the streets, adults are not always friendly. When Salina meets Lacey, she strikes a deal that Lacey cannot pass up. Salina offers Lacey a job. At least the work will give her and Gina shelter, clothes and food. Once Lacey is cleaned up, she and Salina could almost be twins. Salina uses it as an advantage to play a game of confusion with her brother, Henry. Lacey agrees, thinking of Gina. Then Salina wants another adventure. Things do not turn out as planned for the three, when danger and deception darken their door. When things take a serious side, can the children trust the parents enough to confide the truth to them?

Whenever I read a story by Fran Shaff, I know I will never be disappointed. This one is no exception. She brings life to her characters and has a way of getting into the mind of each player, bringing out the emotions that even the reader can share in. I was so touched by the devotion that Lacey feels for Gina. The Trading Game is filled with intrigue, commitment, responsibilities and the importance of love. I believe this read is a great asset for any age. Not only did I find it extraordinary, but it comes highly recommended as the reader is even engaged in the activities of the children and the game of survival.

Cherokee
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance
Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books

 

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