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My only concern is a colored girl with milk chocolate skin is not assumed to be mixed. When comparing skin color—particularly that shade—to milk chocolate, think of a Hershey’s Milk Chocolate bar. Big difference in shades there, since it was noted that she was in fact lighter than Billy—the Native American Billy—and his skin is darker than hers by a few shades. However, I loved that fact that it was stated that even mixed children were considered colored, because the history there matches up accurately, specifically with queen.
The historical facts and events spoken add up well in the story, especially the description of the Seminoles and Eatonville. The issue of race is constant throughout the novel, as it should be, given the time period and location. The character interaction between the trio was quiet pleasing, and the issue of race was an implied undertone throughout the dialogue, but not begrudgingly so. Each of them were patient enough to try and learn about the other, and more importantly they tried to understand where each of them were coming from.
The story telling was interesting, and flowed well with the story to pass the time by for the children. Queenie’s personality is kind, yet authoritative and holding many leadership qualities, even after she and the two Billy’s are finding their way home—and is most noticeably starting to show after the animal incident. Race is again implied during that journey home, and all of the obstacles along the way draw them closer. The power of friendship is strong.
The character building is impressive, and the transition for Billy (the Native American Billy) was satisfying to read, as well as Queenie redefining herself to the tourist. The way she saved the other Billy from having to explain his story to Lucy just yet proved how loyal and respecting of a friend she was.
I give this book a 4 out 4 stars. The story as a whole was exceptional, about five typos, but other than that crafted well. The trials the friends overcame against Lowe, and other things on their journey, showed just how brave the three children were, and how their friendship knows no bounds, even in the face of danger. Their relationship with each other is more firm, rare, and genuine as most today, and the journey they went on was an education, as well as a once in a lifetime coming of age journey into the cowboy, the Indian, and the Amazon Queen. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and Mary E. Dawson's book is definitely worth reading.
***
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