Fiona's Lace

Title: Fiona’s Lace

Author: Patricia Polacco

Picture Book

In this book Patricia Polacco tells the story of her great-great-grandmother, Fiona. Fiona and her family lived in Ireland, but they dreamed of greater things than their small village. They decided to go to America.

They found a rich family who would pay for their passage to Chicago in return for Fiona and her family working for them. After they arrived in Chicago, they worked hard to pay off their loan. Fiona learned to make the most beautiful lace. She could sell this lace for a good profit. They were settled and happy until the terrible Chicago Fire breaks out. Can their little family survive one of Chicago’s greatest tragedies?

A lovely story of hardworking and kind people. Just be aware that there are a few classic Irish tales and folklore intertwined in the story. It’s another home run from Patricia Polacco.