Be Home by the Bells: A Child's Narrative in Upstate New York

By Holly O'Brien

Set in 1961-1962, this is an inspirational adventure story for 9-12 year old girls and adults with nostalgia for those times, or a regional interest in Upstate New York. Based on a real girlhood in a small village in upstate New York, we follow Katie and her odd collection of friends, (other children of all ages and interests who just happen to live in her neighborhood), as they create their own fun and solve their own daily problems. They always play outside, unless it rains, and have a range of freedom to be only envied by today's more sheltered, adult managed children. The one rule that they must follow is to be home by the donkey, the siren, or the bells, depending on their moms' instructions! Whether they are exploring Grandma's attic or underground caverns; coping with chronic illness, a massive town fire or a destructive tornado; appreciating wild foods, natural beauty, and native crafts, or discovering the "ghost kids", (who are quarantined kids who live upstairs and are always watching them), Katie's lyric ,detailed descriptions bring us there, growing with them as they develop self-reliance. Visit the secret old barn hideout with the bats, the hidden swimming hole, and the pear orchard which is a neighborhood kid meeting place. Hidden waterfalls, Grandpa's shop, native trails and so much more are all a part of this intriguing tale. Katie, an inquisitive girl who loves to read, shares her thoughts and big questions about the meaning of life as revealed in its tiniest details, in a narrative journal. She writes in a stream of conscious flow between her present and past. Inspiration, courage, hope, friendship, fun and wholesome family values are woven into this literary classic coming of age book for girls. Over 100 original pen and ink drawings and photos enhance the charm and realism of the story. Detailed historic notes are included for each chapter and will be useful for those who wish to further learn about regional history. An appendix of suggested activities related to the book adds to the overall value of this unique narrative.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0692308989
• ISBN13: 9780692308981
• Release Date: October 2014
• Publisher: Lilac Blossom Press
• Length: 436 Pages
• Weight: 1.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.0" x 9.0"
• Age Range: 9 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 3 to 6