Clara and Davie: The True Story of Young Clara Barton

Gr 1–3—Drawing once again on her family history, Polacco shares the story of a distant relative. The very shy Clara was especially close to her brother, Davie. While their older sister thought that Clara was too lazy to speak correctly, Davie understood that she had a severe lisp. The siblings became inseparable, Clara a willing student to Davie's lessons in horseback riding and other outdoor endeavors. Clara spent time with the barn animals, studying their habits and needs. She seemed "to have healing in her hands." After classmates teased her about her speech, Clara, an excellent student, was taught at home. She and Davie visited the library and borrowed books about nature. Soon, Clara was borrowing medical books as well. Word of her ability spread and she began treating the neighbors' livestock. When Davie was severely injured in an accident, she immediately took over his care. After his long recovery, Davie proclaimed, "You do have the gift of healing, Clara….Thank you for my life." The author's endnote details Barton's adult accomplishments in the medical field and her founding of the American Red Cross. Polacco's characteristic mixed-media illustrations are lively and evocative, and the winter scenes are especially appealing. This heartwarming story of sibling devotion and overcoming obstacles will whet readers' interest and lead them to further study.—Sara-Jo Lupo Sites, George F. Johnson Memorial Library, Endicott, NY