When a storm blows change into town in the form of a visiting veterinarian, Callie discovers a life and a vocation she desperately wants. But with societal expectations as they are, she will need all her wits and courage to realize her dreams.
Review: The Curious World of Calpurnia Tate is a thoroughly enjoyable companion novel to the Newbery award winner The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate. You don't have to read the first book in order to enjoy the companion novel and Kelly quickly fills readers in on essential background (only girl in the family, with six brothers; Callie’s avid pursuit of nature studies with quirky, formidable Granddaddy). Callie's love of science and her curiosity is contagious. I just loved seeing her be so passionate about learning.
The Curious World of Calpurnia Tate is episodic, highlighted by birthdays and holidays and major events such as the September 1900 hurricane that devastated Galveston. What holds the book together and drives the plot is Callie's one-year-younger brother Travis’s heartwarming search for a pet by bringing home strays and taking care of them, which provides some comic relief as well as heartbreak. I loved watching Callie interact with Travis and watching her assume the role of his elder and providing him support and advice when he needs it the most.
The most important part of the book for me is Callie’s growing understanding of herself as a young woman of intellect and ability in a world that isn’t ready for her. She is being to realize that her society's expectations of her gender is limiting and will be an obstacle in finding her way to veterinary college, but I love Callie's determination and tenacity to prove everyone wrong. She is definitely a believable character who is so easy to root for.
The Curious World of Calpurnia Tate is a book that will not only appeal to young readers who like science, learning about animals, but also readers who love characters who are determined to realize their dreams. It is a thought-provoking and engaging read. I do hope we get another book to see how Callie fairs with adolescence and finds her foot in the door of the college of her choice.
The Curious World of Calpurnia Tate is episodic, highlighted by birthdays and holidays and major events such as the September 1900 hurricane that devastated Galveston. What holds the book together and drives the plot is Callie's one-year-younger brother Travis’s heartwarming search for a pet by bringing home strays and taking care of them, which provides some comic relief as well as heartbreak. I loved watching Callie interact with Travis and watching her assume the role of his elder and providing him support and advice when he needs it the most.
The most important part of the book for me is Callie’s growing understanding of herself as a young woman of intellect and ability in a world that isn’t ready for her. She is being to realize that her society's expectations of her gender is limiting and will be an obstacle in finding her way to veterinary college, but I love Callie's determination and tenacity to prove everyone wrong. She is definitely a believable character who is so easy to root for.
The Curious World of Calpurnia Tate is a book that will not only appeal to young readers who like science, learning about animals, but also readers who love characters who are determined to realize their dreams. It is a thought-provoking and engaging read. I do hope we get another book to see how Callie fairs with adolescence and finds her foot in the door of the college of her choice.
Rating: 4 stars
Words of Caution: There is some details on animal ailments that might be a bit much for those with a light stomach. There is also a scene where a dog is put to rest.
If you like this book try: Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson, Riding Freedom by Pam Munoz Ryan, Vet Volunteers series by Laurie Halse Anderson, Voyages of Dr. Dolittle by Hugh Lofting
Labels:
2015 YRHMB Reading Challenge,
4 stars,
Childrens,
Family,
Historical Fiction,
Newbery,
Pets
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This sounds like a great read, thanks for putting it on my radar and wonderful review!
Seems like a great read indeed, nice of you to share. Greetings!
This would have been so perfect for me as a kid. I would have loved this one. Hm... might have to read it now and then pass it along. :)