Hunger: A Tale of Courage

Gr 4–6—A sad, weighty tale about young people experiencing hunger firsthand and the sorrow that accompanies loss. Lorraine, 12, is the child of a tenant farmer in County Galway, Ireland, in 1846, at the height of the Potato Famine. The family and their neighbors face extreme poverty and struggle to survive the season. Lorraine befriends Susanna, the daughter of the wealthy landowner, who secretly helps Lorraine and her friends by giving them food. The rocky yet poignant friendship between Lorraine and Susanna keeps readers engaged and fosters a sense of hope. The faith of the adults and children is tested, and parents must decide what to do to save their families: stay in Ireland or move to another part of the world where conditions are better. The Irish people of the time are portrayed as stoic, strong, and proud, but also as victims of the wealthy, ruling British class. The ending may leave some readers wondering about the characters' choices and perhaps disagree with them, which could foster lively discussions. This book fills a unique niche among historical fiction titles due to the subject matter and setting. The extensive back matter supports the authenticity of the story and provides opportunities for further study.