Book Review - Pictures of Hollis Woods

 

1. Bibliography

Giff, Patricia Reilley. 2009. Pictures of Hollis Woods [Audiobook, unabridged]. Listening Library. Hope David, Reader. ASIN: B00271Q5NE.  

2. Plot Summary 

Abandoned as a baby and bounced around all her life, Hollis Woods (named after the place where she was found) is an intelligent, artistic girl.  Her insecurities prevent her from loving and allowing herself to be loved.  She learns from each of her situations and eventually finds what she "W" wants, wished for - a family.

3. Critical Analysis

The sound recording, performed by Hope Davis, a professional actress, is the perfect way to experience this touching story.  Davis is able to seamlessly weave in and out of each character so that the reader/listener is able to know the characters at a level that would not be achieved through reading it in a traditional, one voice manner.  The first few chapters give valuable background events that enlighten the reader about where Hollis has been in order to understand the importance of seeing her all the way to the blissful end. Giff artfully describes scenes that Hollis draws using such descriptive language as, sitting "under a lamp that tossed rainbows across the table." Getting to know Hollis, readers understand her fears and regrets, her longings and her hopes and they will undoubtedly root for her to fulfill her dream of belonging to a family.  This moving tale inspires young readers to take ownership of their own actions, to take a step back and view their situation from a new vantage point, and to help others in need.  The way Beatrice and Josie help Hollis gain confidence and to see her situation from a new perspective can help the reader relate this valuable life lesson to his or her own life.  The family that Hollis has always wished for is finally found, helping the reader enjoy the excitement and knowledge that good things can come from bad situations.  

4. Review Excerpts

2002 Kirkus Review Starred:  "This touching story will leave readers pleasantly drained, satisfied with the happy ending, and eager for more about Hollis's future."

2003 Horn Book Starred:  "this is a remarkably well-observed novel"

2003 Newbery Honor/Medal

5. Connections

Lead students at write a passage with a prompt such as: If you moved from family to family, what item would you treasure most?

Discuss how the pictures Hollis draws are described. Instruct students to imagine a special place or event and use words to "draw" it, then share their description with their classmates. 

Research New York to find out about Long Island - where it is exactly, what is there for tourists, etc.  Also, find out about the typical weather patterns for each year and compare their findings to our seasonal weather in Texas.