"This uplifting tale of hope, survival, and belonging has all the ingredients to become a beloved middle grade book." Publishers Weekly
"This story of friendship, inner strength, and family comes in an adventurous package that will appeal to readers of realistic fiction." Booklist
"Carefully researched and authentically rendered. . . . A fast-paced, intriguing, and surprising orphan story." Kirkus Reviews
The tension and excitement of running away and the fun and fascinating daily life of a circus will keep young readers turning the pages, but it s Lucy s real-life backstory that makes Orphan Elevena true and compelling triumph. BookPage
Lucy s journey is heartwarming as she overcomes her fear of speaking in order to avoid judgment, and finds a new family and home in an unusual place. The Bulletin
The plot races with fascinating glimpses of life in the thirties, and insight into the children s difficult journey as they search for hope and stability. School Library Journal
Gennifer Choldenko was the youngest in a family of four kids, where her nickname was Snot-Nose. Her quirky sense of humor made its debut at the dinner table when Gennifer was a very little kid. She is the author of seven children s books, including Notes from a Liar and Her Dog, a School Library Journal Best Book of the Year; If a Tree Falls at Lunch Period; and Al Capone Shines My Shoes.
