Jolene

**Thank you VanitaBooks and Netgalley for providing this in exchange for a honest review**

I have mixed feelings about this title. There were a few things that really bothered me. The story starts with two sisters cleaning together. The younger sister, who was adopted out of China, asks her sister to read the words stamped on the broom. The Words are "Made in China". The older sister proceeds to taunt the younger one. She says things that make it seem the younger sister isn't worth more then the other objects through the house that were also Made in China. Of course, this upsets the little girl. She runs to her father to find out if this is true. Instead of saying "Your sister is being a snotty Brat" (then dealing with the older sisters atrocious behavior) he says "Yes you were made in China, but it was to bring us joy" (paraphrasing there). To me, it sounds like he just confirmed what the older sister was saying. To tell her "you were made to bring us joy" sounds like "You were made for our entertainment". The father does say a few redeeming things about how much he loves her, but he continued to use the phrase Made in China when referring to her. It just rubbed me the wrong way. Another thing that bothered me is the older sister is never reprimanded for tearing down her little sister. I understand this is a book for a younger audience. However, I think the age group this is meant for is when you need to start making things clear to children. It's when they start learning what is acceptable behavior and what isn't. I don't think it's ok that this little girl was made to feel awful by someone who is meant to love and protect her. And the story made it seem like it was ok.

Once again, Kristin Blackwood illustrations are beautiful. She is a truly talented illustrator.