Yolonda's Genius

Yolonda's Genius
by Carol Fenner

Aladdin Paperbacks, 1995







Genre:  Realistic Fiction

Honors:  ALA Newbery Honor Book, ALA Notable Children's Books, Book Links Good Books Of The Year

Review:  Yolanda's little brother Andrew doesn't talk much. Instead, he communicates through his dead father's old army harmonica by imitating the nuances within the voices he hears. Although this talent leads many people to believe that he isn't smart, Yolanda begins to realize that Andrew's abilities actually convey a true genius. However, Yolanda finds that convincing others isn't as simple as she thought.

Opinion:  Initially, I was thrown off by the cover art which depicts Yolanda as a skinny and very young girl, opposite of the truly overweight thirteen year old. However, the book itself was a great story about an older and protective sister who cares very much for her younger brother; their relationship is really very touching.

Ideas:  As this book is about a little boy with an amazing musical talent, I think it would work well on a book list related to music library items. Another idea might be for a teacher looking for a book with a strong relationship between an older sister who protects her younger brother.