Close to Home: A Story of the Polio Epidemic (Once Upon America)
Grade 3-5-- In 1952, as Betsy completes fifth grade in a Pittsburgh school, the fear of polio is everywhere. When she connects with the much admired, spoiled Leticia, it looks as if her summer will be magical. However, their friendship is brought to a halt by Leticia's mother, who fears her daughter will catch polio from nearly any activity. Betsy and her brother are vaccinated at the Salk clinic, where their mother works, before the treatment is widely available. Leticia gets polio. The book is solid with historical texture; the very first chapter neatly ties the fear of the illness with McCarthyism and fear of foreigners. Unfortunately, the characters lack vitality. Although worthy, the plot and resolution are predictable and workmanlike, the conclusion didactic. Leticia declares that she will walk again; Betsy, gently fingering her vaccination, knows that Leticia will still be the same inside, and always be a fun friend. Select this title only if you have high demand for historical fiction. --Carolyn Noah, Cen tral Mass. Regional Library System, Worcester, MACopyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.