Module 7: The Outcasts of 19 Shuyler Place

Book Summary:

Margret doesn't want to do anything, in fact she hates the camp her parents sent her to while they were in Peru. She is trilled when her uncles rescue her from camp by letting her stay with them till her parents returned. While there she learns a lot about her family and the importance standing up for a good cause. When neighbors want to tear down the sculptures her uncles have take 40 years to make she is force out of her shell, and forced to take action.

Book Citation:

Konigsberg, E. L. (2005). The outcasts of 19 Schuyler place. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers 

Impressions:

 I like this book, it was different, and different is good. It reminds me of my family and the closeness that we have. I felt like Margret finally was able to find a sense of belonging there with her uncles. Finding this belonging gave her the courage to stand up for her uncles. It gave her the courage to fight for something good something that is worth something....family.  Belonging somewhere is a great feeling!

Reviews:

From School Library Journal

Grade 6-9–E. L. Konigsburg has created another spunky young heroine in The Outcasts of 19 Schuyler Place (Atheneum, 2004.) Twelve-year-old Margaret Rose Kane declares her independence when she politely, but firmly, refuses to "fit in" at summer camp. Fortunately, her great uncles Alex and Morris are happy to bring her to their home on Schuyler Place where she quickly learns about a dispute between the elderly men and a neighborhood group. The controversy centers on the uncle's colorful backyard towers that the neighbors believe lower their property values. The two men have carefully built these structures over four decades, but now they are set for demolition. Undaunted by the looming deadline, the determined girl enlists the help of family friends and the camp director's son. While the adults work to preserve the towers, Margaret stops the wrecking crew by taking a brave stand, and by getting unexpected help from her former camp tormentors. The story offers an insightful look at issues such as urban renewal and the realities of local politics. Actress Molly Ringwald cleverly employs a vaguely-Hungarian accent and lots of humor to bring the novel's memorable characters to life. Though the rose illustration on the cover may not draw listeners, the good sound quality, solid packaging, and useful information on the case will make it easy to circulate. Konigsburg's fans will delight as her latest youthful adventurer outwits the system and reaffirms the power of mutually-supportive loved ones. There's sure to be a worthwhile place on the shelves of public and middle school libraries for this audiobook.–Barbara Wysocki, Cora J. Belden Library, Rocky Hill, CT
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Library Uses:

You can use this book in a unit about realistic fiction. This book can also be used in a unit about the similarities and difference within families. 

• Standing up for a good cause.