“. . . utterly charming! I was most interested in the history behind Sophia’s Gift.”
“A must read that reminds us of the simple pleasure a doll can provide in trying times.”
“I really enjoyed this story. I liked how grateful everyone was and the kindness shown toward each other. Illustrations are beautiful, too.”
“What a lovely way to pass along what was a footnote in American history to a new and more diverse generation in full book form.”
“A brightly illustrated picture book introducing children to the hardships of the American Civil War.”
“Sophia’s Gift is well-told. Based on real historical personages, the characters are real and sympathetic. Pacing is pleasantly swift. I loved the addition of Yiddish words and phrases. Descriptive details are fascinating: eggshells in cornmeal, thorns used for pins, Sophia’s tiny stitches for the lace. They really bring the story to life!
Transitions are so important in a history story that covers a long time period, and Karen has managed them with grace and fluidity. Sophia’s Gift appeals to history buffs and doll lovers of all ages. It is clearly of interest to museums, regional publications, and internationally as a picture book.”
“Sophia’s Gift stirs imagination, curiosity, and emotion. A china doll embodies the love and bravery that Sophia and her mother need to survive a family-separating, heart-breaking war. The intertwining stories among the family, the doll, and a young, wounded soldier show the difference made by caring and sharing.”
“. . . illuminates friendship between the wounded soldier and a Jewish mother and daughter that nurture him back to health.”
“. . . fascinating story with rich content, vivid language, and lively use of dialogue.”
“Sophia’s Gift is a window into the Civil War.”
“A delightful read not only for children but for anyone with a passion for dolls. Collectors enjoy stories that feature dolls, especially those that portray antique dolls accurately, and Sophia’s Gift will not disappoint. Wonderful holiday gift!”
“Sophia’s Gift is inspiring. Everyone needs a copy in their library!”
“A product of love and of intellect.”
“Provides a true feeling of the times: the poverty, the loneliness, and the war anxieties. Loran Chavez’s lovely watercolors provide a gentle backwash. Light blues and browns give a natural feel of the minimal life necessary to those days, how a single toy can brighten up a whole room.”
“Sophia’s Gift has pictures, historical notes, and a sprinkling of Jewish words written to easily understand their meaning. It is beautifully illustrated and easy-to-read for children to enjoy now, and perhaps hand down to others in the future.”
“Any child or adult will treasure Sophia’s Gift. The illustrations are wonderful and Karen’s characters take you back into history with every turn of the page.”
