Reviews

Gr 6 Up-Elnora Comstock is energetic, resourceful, and cheerful despite the fact that her mother is embittered by personal tragedy and financial hardships. Gene Stratton-Porter's engaging novel, first published in 1909, will not only appeal to readers who've enjoyed L.M. Montgomerys Anne of Green Gables, but also to youngsters who struggle with difficult parents. The story begins with Elnora's first year in high school, goes through the vicissitudes of young love, and, ends when she is an instructor in nature studies. Along the way, listeners meet the cast of characters who encourage and support Elnora as she collects and sells the delicate moths that inhabit the swampy area known as the Limberlost. Though it was the treacherous bogs of this swamp that cost her father his life, Elnora's knowledge and love of its night-flying insects earns her the money she needs to pay for school. It is also in the Limberlost where she meets and falls in love with Phillip, a Chicago lawyer, who is engaged to someone else. Early hurts turn to happiness as Elnora's unselfish attitudes and her mother's acceptance of some hard truths mend the mother/daughter relationship. Later, when Phillip recognizes his feeling for Elnora, the young woman's compassion even helps his former fianc?e. Narrator Christina Moore gives each character a subtly distinctive voice, and adds the right touches of humor and pathos when needed. This lesser-known classic is a worthwhile addition for libraries with large audiobook collections. Middle school teachers may wish to combine it with study on moths and wetland habitats.-Barbara Wysocki, Cora J. Belden Library, Rocky Hill, CT Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.