Rachel's Secret (The Rachel Trilogy)
"Adeptly conveys the history, from Mikhail Rybachenko's real name to the bitter bigotry and bloodbath...Critical for its underexplored subject." (Kirkus Reviews2012-03-15)[Starred review] "Basing the story on historical record, Sanders weaves a tale of catastrophe stemming from unbridled hatred, spreading of untruths, and lack of commitment to public safety on the part of officials...In an artful way throughout this absorbing, chilling tale, characters wonder what can stop the tragedy of hatred from overcoming community, a question that will prompt readers to wonder the same." (Booklist2012-04-15)"A compelling story about an unfamiliar historical event...The novel holds its value as an informational story that historical-fiction fans will appreciate." (School Library Journal2012-05-01)"An excellent candidate for a classroom study in social studies or language arts as well as individual reading for pleasure...The weaving of the personal with the historic is skillful and thought-provoking. This one is a must for a library serving youth." (VOYA2012-04-01)"First-time novelist Shelly Sanders masterfully reconstructs life in early 20th century Russia. And the skillful integration of the small details of daily life (the food, clothing, dwellings and activities) into a plot that is about to boil over, makes for a very rich reading experience...Rachel's Secretwould be an excellent addition to a middle school or junior high school study of racism...Sanders should be commended for her ability to provide the shocking facts of this story while keeping her young adult audience in mind. Highly Recommended." (CM Magazine2012-03-09)"Written in a realistic style with details of the time lending authenticity...Rachel's Secrettells an important story of an historical event seems to be overlooked in children's fiction." (Resource Links2012-04-01)"The well-written story gives readers a good portrayal of what life was like for Jews in pre-Revolutionary Russia...The author's vividly-drawn characters bring the historical period to life while personalizing the story." (Association of Jewish Libraries2012-09-01)