The Secret of Honeycake by Kimberly Newton Fusco
on January 21, 2025
ISBN: 0593121775
Genres: Historical Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Hurricane has suffered a lot of loss in her short life – her father was killed in the War, her mother died of tuberculosis, and now her sister is headed to the same tuberculosis “resting hospital” where their mother died. What will Hurricane do without her sister to take care of her and to speak for her? Hurricane often finds herself unable to speak up, especially to her demanding teacher who always blames Hurricane. Even worse, Hurricane’s sister has made arrangements for Hurricane to move to the city, far from her beloved oceanfront home, to live with their estranged Aunt. Worst of all, Hurricane’s Aunt insists Hurricane leave her beloved dog behind. Aunt Claire lives with her chauffeur who has his own war stories and is a master baker. Hurricane makes friends with a local boy who peddles fish and he advises Hurricane on her project to tame a wild kitten. Set during the Great Depression, readers will enjoy how Hurricane’s relationship with her Aunt evolves. Aunt Claire changes too – she jumps into parenting classes when Hurricane arrives but then starts to realize she can do much more than society – and her late husband’s family – dictates. This is a gentle story that will appeal to upper elementary and middle school readers who enjoy books where the protagonist grows and learns to adapt. In her gentle way, Hurricane is able to forge relationships with her newfound family and to gently persuade her Aunt to respect Hurricane’s wishes. This historical fiction novel is for readers who want to immerse themselves in a story with strong characters.

Reviewed by Karen Sandlin Silverman, Mt. Ararat Middle School, Topsham