In 1892, nine-year-old Dom’s mother puts him on a ship leaving Italy, bound for America. He is a stowaway, traveling alone and with nothing of value except for a new pair of shoes from his mother. In the turbulent world of homeless children in Manhattan’s Five Points, Dom learns street smarts, and not only survives, but thrives by starting his own business. A vivid, fascinating story of an exceptional boy, based in part on the author’s grandfather.
WINNER
| 2006 ALA Notable Children's Book
WINNER
| 2005 Sydney Taylor Book Award, Association of Jewish Libraries
"This tale may well offer readers insight into how their own familiesfound their way here."—Publishers Weekly, Starred"History comes to vibrant life for middle grade readers and almost anyone whose ancestors came from foreign lands."—Kirkus Reviews, Starred
In 1892, nine-year-old Dom’s mother puts him on a ship leaving Italy, bound for America. He is a stowaway, traveling alone and with nothing of value except for a new pair of shoes from his mother. In the turbulent world of homeless children in Manhattan’s Five Points, Dom learns street smarts, and not only survives, but thrives by starting his own business. A vivid, fascinating story of an exceptional boy, based in part on the author’s grandfather.
Awards
WINNER
| 2006 ALA Notable Children's Book
WINNER
| 2005 Sydney Taylor Book Award, Association of Jewish Libraries
Praise
"This tale may well offer readers insight into how their own familiesfound their way here."—Publishers Weekly, Starred"History comes to vibrant life for middle grade readers and almost anyone whose ancestors came from foreign lands."—Kirkus Reviews, Starred
