Realistic Fiction: At the Crossroads

At the Crossroads

Rachel Isadora

Mulberry Books: 1994

ISBN: 0-606-06192-4

At the Crossroads, by Rachel Isadora, is a book about children who wait for their father to come home from the mines. It is realistic fiction because it depicts children who live in the coal mining district. In this book, the children get ready for the day, they go to school, and come home singing , "Our fathers are coming home today". All of the children wait at the crossroads for their fathers to come off the bus home, but they wait all night! Will their father's ever come home? Find out by reading At the Crossroads by Rachel Isadora. 

I would give this book a 5 out of 10. I would say it is a good read for any parent who wants to read a book to their child about a life of a coal mining family. Any child that lives in a coal mining family and experiences their dad leaving from time to time should definitely read this book. I would say coming from a person who grew up with parents who work in businesses, my view on this book was different. I felt bad for the kids and I wished that they did not have to wait for their fathers all night long. It is appealing to children who have difficulties dealing with this issue. The pictures are very graphic for children and are bright in color. The story just made me feel sad and empty, but any child who is going through this might feel a sign of hope. If this book fits your needs, find it at your local library near you!