The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It’s nearly Christmas when the Vanderbeekers learn that their lease will not be renewed. That come the new year, they will have to find someplace else to live and it’s all because of their miserly landlord, Mr. Beiderman. For the life of them, they can’t figure out why “The Beiderman” wants them gone, but what the Vanderbeeker children do know is that they are going to do whatever it takes to change his mind. Each of the 5 children use their unique skills and talents to try and win him over. Mr. Beiderman is one tough cookie but this family is up for the challenge!
The heart and charm of this story abound because of the loving, close-knit Vanderbeekers. The relationship they share is priceless. Together they persevere, and with a little digging, they unravel the mystery that is their neighbor, Mr. Beiderman. It honestly left me wondering how well I really know my neighbors. What makes them laugh and smile? What are their hopes and dreams? What are their stories? I love that Karina Yan Glaser put me in a place to think about these things. I really enjoyed the Vanderbeekers of 141st Street and look forward to returning to Harlem with them soon in their next adventure.
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street
Karina Yan Glaser
CeCeLibrarian’s Book Blog 