Jennifer L. Holm's Turtle in Paradise charms readers with its heartfelt depiction of a spunky 11-year-old during the Great Depression. Critics praise its rich historical detail and engaging storytelling. However, some note that the plot can feel predictable. Overall, it's a delightful read with strong, relatable characters and a vivid setting.

Readers who enjoy heartwarming, historical adventures with a spunky protagonist will love Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer L. Holm. Fans of Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery or The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall will find this story appealing for its charming characters and nostalgic feel.

Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer L. Holm is a historical fiction novel set in the Florida Keys during the Great Depression, following the adventures of an 11-year-old girl named Turtle as she visits her aunt and cousins and adjusts to her new life, encountering challenges and forming bonds while navigating her way through her mother's and her own complexities.

Nostalgic / Bittersweet / Humorous / Heartwarming

- Turtle in Paradise was a finalist for the prestigious Newbery Honor in 2011, recognizing its contribution to children's literature.
- Jennifer L. Holm was inspired to write Turtle in Paradise by her own family history and stories she heard from her Key West-native grandmother.

**Turtle**  
An eleven-year-old girl with a tough, practical outlook and a witty sense of humor, who narrates the story and navigates life changes on an island with her relatives. 

**The Diaper Gang**  
A group of boys led by Turtle's cousin Beans, who look after babies in exchange for candy and are known for their secretive diaper rash formula and no-girls-allowed rule. 

**Aunt Minerva “Minnie” Curry**  
Turtle's hardworking aunt, who runs a laundry business and cares for her three boys, displaying both resilience and compassion despite the challenges of parenting largely alone. 

**Sadiebelle Gifford**  
Turtle's idealistic mother, who works as a housekeeper and dreams of having a home, yet faces disappointments in her romantic life. 

**Slow Poke**  
A kind sailor in Key West with a personal interest in Turtle, whom he befriends and offers temporary work. 

**Nana “Philly” Philomena**  
Turtle's direct and initially intimidating maternal grandmother, whose frailty hides a more tender side.

Jennifer L. Holm

Middle grade

Novel

Turtle in Paradise

Fiction

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