Historical Fiction: Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer L. Holm

Holm, Jennifer L. (2010). Turtle In Paradise. New York: Random House. ISBN 9780375836886

Summary

                Turtle in Paradise is the story of a spunky eleven year old girl living during the Great Depression. In an effort to find a job, Turtle’s mother takes a housekeeping job with an elderly woman who does not allow children in her home. Due to these rules, Turtle is forced to move to Key West, Florida to live with her aunt and four boy cousins, none of whom she had ever met. During this time, Turtle experiences many new things…traveling from house to house with her “diaper gang” cousins, meeting and building a relationship with her grandmother, seeking buried treasure, and surviving a hurricane.

Analysis

                Turtle in Paradise is a wonderful historical fiction read. The characters are very realistic and easily understood. Opposite from her mother, Turtle makes it clear that she lives a no-nonsense life when she says “Mama has soft blue eyes and all she sees are kittens and roses. My eyes are gray as soot, and I see things for what they are.” With this notion, the reader understands that Turtle is one tough eleven year old, while her mother lives in a Hollywood-themed fantasyland. Her cousins are made out to be exactly what one may picture young boys in the thirties to be…tough, a little messy, and downright mean. They do, however, come around and watch out for each other, and even for Turtle.

                The plot follows the traditional fiction format, however, significant historical events are included to enhance the story. In this case, several references are made to Shirley Temple and Little Orphan Annie. The struggles the adults endure are reflective of what really went on during the Great Depression. Finally, the climax of the story takes place during the “Labor Day Hurricane”, an actual significant moment in Key West history.  With all of these features included in the story, Turtle In Paradise is appropriately set. Holm did a wonderful job of incorporating significant people, events, and characteristics into her setting of Key West.

The story has an overarching theme of family and knowing where one comes from. Although Turtle is hesitant to live her new life in Florida, she is able to “come out of her shell” and grow as a person, thanks to the help of her family. Even her mother’s idealistic thoughts transform Turtle’s personality and appreciation for relatives. The ending, although momentarily heartbreaking, brings everyone together, once again, displaying the importance of family. 

                Throughout the entire story, Holm uses wonderful voice, making it easy for the reader to visualize exactly what life was like for Turtle and her family. The story is told from a first-person perspective, giving us a clear understanding of Turtle’s thoughts. The incorporation of Key West lingo makes for a very fun read. The reader learns new meaning to words like conch, which not only refers to a type of seashell, but also refers to a resident of the Florida Keys. When Turtle asks a local why everyone has strange nicknames like Pork Chop or Slow Poke, he refers to it as “the Key West way”.

                Following the story, Holm includes an author’s note that gives accurate information about the real time, location, and people involved in the story. She notes that Turtle in Paradise was inspired by her great-grandmother’s experiences in the Florida Keys. She includes real pictures to add to the authenticity of her research. She also includes a bibliographic listing of her resources, proving that the story is credible. Although the characters aren’t entirely real, the book itself is an accurate depiction of what life would be like for a child like Turtle in the 1930s.

Personal Response

                I absolutely loved Turtle in Paradise. Turtle’s thoughts were much more realistic than her mother’s, which made my heart ache for her with her lack of a carefree childhood. Holm did an excellent job of making the history come alive through her tale, creating a historical fiction piece that is sure to be loved by many readers.

Reviews and Awards

A 2011 Golden Kite Award Winner

A 2011 John Newbery Medal Honor Book

“Holm's voice for Turtle is winning and authentic that of a practical, clear-eyed observer and her nimble way with dialogue creates laugh-out-loud moments.” –Kirkus Reviews

“Infused with period pop culture references, a strong sense of place, and the unique traditions and culture of Key West natives, this humorous adventure effectively portrays Turtle as caught between her mother’s Hollywood-inspired dreams and the very real family and geography that offer a different kind of paradise.“- Publisher's Weekly

Connections

Many historical events are present throughout this book. After reading the novel, students can choose one of the significant events to research, such as the Great Depression or the Labor Day Hurricane. Students can also research more about daily life in the Keys in the 1930s.

Another historical fiction novel by Jennifer Holm:

Holm, Jennifer L. (2007). Penny From Heaven. New York, NT: Yearling. ISBN 978-0375836893