The Shepherd's Granddaughter (Canadian Children's Book News Fall 2008, Vol 31. No. 4)

The Shepherd’s Granddaughter
written by Anne Laurel Carter
Groundwood Books, 2008
978-0-88899-902-3 (hc) $17.95
978-0-88899-903-0 (pb) $12.95
for Grades 7 and up
Senior Fiction – Conflict– Middle East

Amani comes from a long line of shepherds and has always dreamt of becoming a shepherd like her grandfather. For generations, the family has grazed sheep above the olive groves of their homestead near Hebron, but now the land is being threatened by Jewish settlements and the construction of a new highway.

Then Amani meets Jonathan, an American boy visiting his father who is one of the settlers, and away from the biases and pressures of their families, they discover that despite their differences, they have one important thing in common – a desire for peace.

This new novel from author Anne Laurel Carter offers a different perspective on the land disputes in Palestine, told through the eyes of 15-year-old Amani. Strong-willed, intelligent, and completely devoted to her sheep, Amani is a wonderful character that readers will empathize with and enjoy.

The story is well-developed, realistic and believable, without ever becoming heavy handed or showing bias. The characters are completely human and not exaggerated, and by allowing Amani and Jonathan to meet alone in the yet-undisturbed secret meadow, Carter lets readers see two teenagers who could be friends, and not enemies from opposite sides sworn to hate each other.

Overall, this novel is a swift and thought-provoking read, and one which will hopefully transform the readers’ view of this very difficult topic and open up discussion with middle grade students.

Reviewed by Rachel Steen