"Information-packed but never didactic, this moving narrative describes the life of a Palestinian girl. Amani's extended family lives simply, tending its olive groves and animals. Like her grandfather, Amani loves to care for the sheep, and from a young age has played an active role; after his death she takes on the sole responsibility for the safety and health of the flock. Her life becomes more complicated when Israeli settlers begin to build nearby. Her uncle and father react differently—one with angry words, the other with attempts at coalition-building and peaceful resistance. Amani, meanwhile, observes the changes and ponders the possibilities until forced to take action by the destruction of her home. Carter clearly conveys a particular point of view, but she neither demonizes all Israelis nor exalts all Palestinians. The integration of Arabic and Hebrew words adds flavor to the text; the clear description of the setting allows readers to enter deeply into the story. Fluid writing and straightforward storytelling make this a pleasure to read, despite the sensitive subject matter. Thoughtful and engaging."
Kirkus Reviews, August 15, 2008

Thematic Links: 

"...The opening salvo of Anne Carter's exceptionally fine novel is uttered by chief protagonist Meg Christie. In 1944, in Last Chance Bay, even the boys don't often get off the ground...Meg's desire to (learn to fly)has been sparked by the crash landing of transatlantic aviator Beryl Markham in a bog close to Meg's home, and by Amelia Earhart's feats and fates...at the book's conclusion readers will soar with her."
The Globe & Mail, Sept.25, 2004

Thematic Links: Mining, World War Two, Early Flight, Women's Liberation

The final story in Elizabeth's adventures in which she helps all her friends achieve their dreams.
 

Thematic Links: Acadian, Friendship, Nova Scotia, Pioneers

Elizabeth teaches her friends to read with a surprise for Christmas Day.
 

Thematic Links: Acadian, Friendship, Nova Scotia, Pioneers

"10-year-old Elizabeth Brightman's principal problem involves her friendships with Sarah Worth, a fellow Protestant Congregationalist colonist, and also to Mathilde LeBlanc, a French Catholic Acadian. Unfortunately Sarah and Mathilde consider each other enemies. Elizabeth decides that the trio will go to nearby Pirate Island where, according to an Acadian verse, 'Between two rocks stands the bending tree, A Pirate's treasure there will be.' HIGHLY RECOMMENDED."
CM . . . . Volume X Number 17 . . . . April 23, 2004

Elizabeth is a “Planter”, an immigrant farmer from Connecticut brought in to settle Nova Scotia after the Acadians have been deported. Is someone trying to burn her new home down?

“Written with humor, energy and a light hand, Bless This House is a rare achievement…I hope there’s a sequel.” Deirdre Baker, The Toronto Star

Pick of the Month
Mississauga Public Library, June 2002.

Thematic links: Adventure, Acadian History, Pioneers, Seven Years War.

"...readers will find achingly real heroines to identify with and learn from."
Quill and Quire, September, 2002

Includes:

“Leaving the Iron Lung”, Vicky Metcalf Award 1999

“The Piano Lesson” winning story in Up All Night. Thistledown Press.

Pauline survives the horrors of polio and dreams of playing hockey.

Silver Birch Award 2002 finalist

“The freedom that Pauline feels when her dad helps her become a hockey player in their backyard rink is palpable.”
School Library Journal

“I always thought no book could beat J.K. Rowling’s but In the Clear is better than any book I have ever read.”
Nancy Janet Cruz, Grade 6

“Anne Carter weaves historical events with modern day circumstances to bring a story gripping with adventure, excitement and romance.”
Canadian Children’s Book Centre

Thematic Links: Expulsion of the Acadians, Time-Travels, Family, Love.