Jip: His Story by Katherine Paterson

Paterson, Katherine. 1998. Jip: His Story. New York: Penguin. ISBN 0140386742

Jip has lived and worked at the poor farm for as long as he can remember, having been dropped off the back of a wagon when he was only two years old. But although Jip is mostly content with his life, he wonders what kind of family doesn't return for their little boy when they realize that he's fallen out of the wagon. Jip's life begins to broaden beyond the farm when he builds a cage for Put, the insane man with occasional violent fits, who is to live at the poor farm, locked-up for safekeeping. Jip makes friends with Put, and begins to attend school. But his past soon catches up with him in ways that will change his world, and his sense of identity, forever.

Paterson's dialogue is always realistic, but in Jip: His Story, Paterson seems to be exceptionally deft. She writes the colloquial speech of Jip, Put, his schoolteacher, and her Quaker friend with a sure touch. The historical element of this story is fascinating, but not overly intrusive to the plot of the story itself. The main character of Jip is compassionate, hard-working, and understanding. Parents will appreciate the lessons of loyalty, acceptance, and kindness, while juvenile readers will appreciate the plot surprises and the exciting resolution to Jip's story.

AWARDS & REVIEWS:

Like Paterson's Newbery-winning Bridge to Terabithia and Jacob Have I Loved, this historically accurate story is full of revelations and surprises . . . While Jip's concerns provide insight into 19th-century society, his yearnings for freedom and knowledge are timeless. The taut, extremely readable narrative and its tender depictions of friendship and loyalty provide first-rate entertainment." --Publisher's Weekly

"Anything by Katherine Paterson is a pleasure to read." --Children's Literature

"Jip is a compassionate hero to be cried over, feared for, and cheered on. What could be better to read aloud or booktalk?" --VOYA

CONNECTIONS:

This book would be a great companion book to other fiction or non-fiction books about the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman, etc. Some titles: Underground Railroad Sampler, Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad, or Harriet Tubman: A Woman of Courage.

Readers who enjoy this book, may want to read Lyddie by Katherine Paterson, because the title character in Lyddie appears in this book as his inspirational teacher.