Author- Richard Peck
Title- A Year Down Yonder
Illustrator- X
Year-2000
Genre- Newberry
Format- Hardcover
Publisher- Dial Books for Young Readers
Reading Level- Late Elementary/ Middle Schoolers
Interest Level- Elementary/Middle
Topics- Newberry, Great Depression, Leaving Home
Summary- This book takes place in the Great Depression. Mary Alice's father loses his job and they have to give up their luxurious apartment in Chicago. 15 year old Mary Alice is sent to live with her Grandmother in a small "hickville, farming community." This book is about the time she spends with her grandmother and the struggles she goes through.
Extension Activity- This book would be used more with other students. After reading this book a good way to get the whole class involved would be to have a group discussion or small group questions. Some good questions would be, How is Mary Alice's life in the country different from what you think her life in the city was like? How does Mary Alice change over the year?
