Bibliography: Hooper, Mary. (2011). Fallen Grace. New York, Bloomsbury USA Children’s. ISBN: 978-1599905648
Plot Summary: Penniless orphans Grace and her sister have just barely managed to avoid starving or freezing to death in Victorian London. When Grace gives birth to a still born baby and sneaks it into the coffin of a well to do woman, little does she realize that this act will eventually lead to an even larger secret that will change both their lives forever.
Critical Analysis: Somehow from the publisher blurb, I wasn’t expecting such a charming, delightful book. Yes, Hooper has done her research, and yes, there are tons of details about life in the Victorian England and the funeral trade (fascinating stuff that.) There are very real glimpses of life in poverty, life on the streets. One detail that will remain in my mind is of the little boy who could only go outside when one of his brothers stayed him, as he had no clothes of his own.
I really like the way the plot is constructed as well. We are given glimpses into other places, other characters that later will fall into place and become more important to the plot. This device adds an air of mystery. The little excerpts from the paper serve a similiar purpose, giving the reader information that the protagonist does not have.
But it is the character of Grace Parkes that makes this story work. She loves her sister and tries hard to provide for them both, taking on tasks and jobs to try get by. And sometimes things go well, and just when you think they will stay that way, something else comes along that should knock her down, but somehow she keeps on. And I think we forgive some of the coincidences and luck that play a role in the story because we want so badly for things to go her way.
Readalikes: There are of course many parallels here to Dickens’ novels. This would be a great read along side any number of his works.
Review Excerpts: “Hooper has done her research, and she makes elements like Victorian funeral practices absolutely fascinating. The story itself moves at an energetic, page-turning clip. If at times the coincidences seem, well, too coincidental, blame Dickens.”–Booklist
“Hooper writes in beautiful 19th-century cadences, but her story lines pack a 21st-century punch. Nothing feels forced or inserted for mere shock value. Fallen Grace has been impeccably researched, and it shows in every paragraph.”–New York Times
“Hooper has not only the labyrinthian plotting and heart-thumping pacing but also the social critique down pat, and even jaded readers may be surprised to find themselves beguiled by the improbable ravages of Cruel Fate and holding their breath for a happy ending.”–BCCB
“Hooper, author of many historical novels, packs her brisk Dickensian fable with colorful characters and suspenseful, satisfying plot twists.”–Kirkus Reviews
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