TROPHY KID: OR HOW I WAS ADOPTED BY THE RICH AND FAMOUS by Steve Atinsky

 

Trophy Kid by Steve Atinsky

Realistic Fiction, Adoption, Celebrities, Croatia-War, Humor,  Satire

184 pages

Description

Since his much-publicized adoption at age three by American movie stars, thirteen-year-old Josef's carefully scripted public life has hidden the isolation he feels at home, but writing a book with a ghostwriter reveals much about his adoptive family and the one he lost during the war in Croatia.

Horn Book Guide (Spring 2009)

Thirteen-year-old Joe, a Croatian war orphan at age three who was adopted by Hollywood stars, is asked by his famous parents to write an autobiography. What starts out as a PR extravaganza soon turns into a life-changing journey as Joe revisits his birthplace and discovers the true meaning of family. The story is funny, well-written, and surprisingly touching.

My Comments

Excellent choice for kids who are having difficulty finding a book to read. The plot moves quickly. It is sad, but Josef's wry observations lend humor to the story. It is definitely satirical, but ends on a positive note. Great choice for grades 6-8.