The Beat on Ruby's Street is for the lack of a better word, powerful. I know what the synopsis said, but I was not prepared for the depth and breadth of experiences and emotions that washed over me in waves as I read this. I'm 32 years old as I write this, and I know this book is accessible to middle grade readers, but also enjoyable for readers of all ages. I never lived in the 50s, but I felt like I was walking those streets with Ruby, hearing, seeing, smelling everything she did. Absolutely brilliant. ( )

The Beat on Ruby's Street is for the lack of a better word, powerful. I know what the synopsis said, but I was not prepared for the depth and breadth of experiences and emotions that washed over me in waves as I read this. I'm 32 years old as I write this, and I know this book is accessible to middle grade readers, but also enjoyable for readers of all ages. I never lived in the 50s, but I felt like I was walking those streets with Ruby, hearing, seeing, smelling everything she did. Absolutely brilliant. ( )

It's a story that takes us back to the 1950's when the Beatniks were attempting to plot their own course through life away from "the man".

The history is great, the setting spot on, but the characters are what really drive this story to a spectacular finish. Ruby is an absolute gem. She's tougher than she seems, can think on her feet, and her heart beats truer than true. She may not always understand the big picture at first glance, but she gets there in her own time with style to spare. Ruby wants so badly to be one of the voices of her generation without even really knowing how it's done, but she doesn't let that stop her and in the end, she achieves more than she dared hope. True, it's not a happily-ever-after the way she pictured, but it is true to the times, the tale, and herself as well as her family, which gives it all the greater impact.

In the end, the author does a great job of breathing life into her characters and it allowed Ruby's voice to come through loud and clear. Though hipster now, it was Beat back then, and while the style may not always appeal, the message transcends any generational gaps.


***ebook was received for review
( )

Eleven-year old Ruby Tabeata is growing up in Greenwich Village in 1958. She is part of the Beat generation and lives a slightly different kind of life than those around her. Ruby loves poetry and writes some herself, her biggest dream is to hear Jack Kerouac perform. However, her parents aren't exactly married, her house isn't the cleanest and she doesn't attend a normal school. All of this plus being mistaken for stealing from a market stall gets Ruby in trouble and gets the attention of a social worker. The social worker does not approve of Ruby's home life and takes her to a children's home. While there, Ruby does whatever she needs in order to return to her mom and home.

The Beat on Ruby's Street was a very interesting look into the life of a child of the Beat generation. I really don't know much about people who did consider themselves Beatniks, and never thought about the children that they raised. I was very interested in Ruby's way of life and I adored her poetry. I thought it was very interesting that they were treated without respect because of their different way of life. However, I didn't like that the social worker was portrayed as a villain rather than someone who came to understand a different way of living. I was very happy that Ruby did finally get to meet her poet and perform her poetry. Overall, an inspiring piece of historical fiction for middle grade readers.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review. ( )

THE BEAT ON RUBY'S STREET STORY-LINE:

In The Beat On Ruby's Street we find Ruby, a child of the 50's and the beatnik era. Ruby lives free and somewhat wild while mom and dad beatniks do their thing. Ruby's growing up and finding who she is. However, accused of stealing, Ruby's life implodes.

Never fear, Ruby's strong, determined, and coming of age. Ruby has dreams of poetry, meeting the famous Jack Kerousac, and becoming a poetic. Challenges will be met, confronted, and conquered.

Come along with Ruby as she grows up on beat street. My children's novel review of The Beat On Ruby's Street follows.

CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, DEVELOPMENT:

Author Jenna Zark explores the counter-culture of the beatniks, their philosophy, and lifestyle. Known as the beat generation, the 1950's were a time of change and restlessness. Exploring Ruby's growth from child to young adult, Zark gives the reader a real feel for this time period.

Giving Ruby a strong personality, Zark demonstrates the determination of the era. With excellent plotting, skillful character development, and pacing which will hold the reader's attention, Zark crafted a one of kind story.

Finally, in concluding my children's novel review of The Beat On Ruby's Street, I found a well-developed story-line, with engaging characters, and skillful plotting. I would not hesitate to buy this book for my self or a friend with proper age children as Zark explores a generator seen only in movies

THE BEAT ON RUBY'S STREET RECOMMENDATION: STARS 4

Recommended for grade levels 5-12

FINALLY, PLEASE NOTE:

Additionally, I received this book from the author and chose to voluntarily review the book with an honest children's novel/book review. Lastly, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion. Consequently, all book reviews on-line and on my blog, are my opinions. In addition, the ARC did not affect my children's novel/book review. ( )