Chasing Secrets: Unveiling the Hidden World of Gennifer Choldenko

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through time and secrets? Join us as we delve into the captivating pages of "Chasing Secrets" by the talented author, Gennifer Choldenko. In this article, we will explore the rich imagination, intriguing characters, and the hidden secrets that await within this literary masterpiece.

The Synopsis

Set in San Francisco during the infamous outbreak of the bubonic plague in the late 19th century, "Chasing Secrets" takes readers on a thrilling adventure with thirteen-year-old Lizzie Kennedy. Living in a city engulfed by fear and hysteria, Lizzie discovers a hidden diary that holds the key to unraveling the mysteries surrounding the deadly disease.

Chasing Secrets

by Gennifer Choldenko(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5297 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	287 pages

FREE

The Power of Historical Fiction

Choldenko skillfully combines historical facts with her imaginative storytelling, creating a vivid portrayal of the era and its challenges. Through her meticulous research, she transports readers back in time, introducing them to the sights, sounds, and struggles of late 1800s San Francisco.

By immersing ourselves in the turbulent atmosphere of the bubonic plague outbreak, we are confronted with the harsh realities faced by the characters. Choldenko expertly brings to life the fear and uncertainty that prevailed during this dark period in history, making "Chasing Secrets" an educational and thought-provoking read.

The Enigmatic Protagonist

Lizzie Kennedy, our courageous and resilient young heroine, captures the hearts of readers as she embarks on a quest to uncover the truth. Her determination to understand the secrets hidden within the diary drives the narrative forward, keeping us engrossed until the very last page.

We witness Lizzie's growth as she navigates the dangerous streets of San Francisco, facing not only the threat of the plague but also the challenges posed by gender norms and the social expectations of the time. Choldenko expertly portrays the struggles of a young girl striving to be heard in a male-dominated society, making Lizzie a relatable and inspiring character.

The Allure of Secrets

"Chasing Secrets" thrives on the allure of unraveling buried truths. As Lizzie dives deeper into the diary, she uncovers a web of interconnected secrets involving her own family and prominent figures in the community. The gripping suspense and constant twists keep readers engaged, leaving them eager to unravel the mysteries on each page.

Choldenko's writing style ignites the curiosity of readers, urging them to keep flipping the pages in search of answers. Every revelation feels like a stepping stone, propelling the story forward and allowing readers to form their own theories about the hidden secrets.

An Inspiring Tale of Resilience and Empathy

Beyond the enthralling plot, "Chasing Secrets" also explores significant themes of resilience and empathy. Lizzie's unwavering determination to save her family and the community from the plague showcases the true strength of the human spirit.

Add to that, the compassion and empathy Lizzie exhibits towards those afflicted by the disease, and we are reminded of the importance of kindness and understanding, even in the most challenging circumstances. Choldenko highlights the power of community and friendship, ultimately reinforcing the idea that individuals can make a difference, no matter how small.

A Must-Read for Young and Old Alike

Whether you are a young adult or an older reader, "Chasing Secrets" will captivate and inspire you. Choldenko's masterful storytelling, coupled with her ability to tackle complicated themes, guarantees an unforgettable reading experience.

Through her words, she urges us to appreciate the power of history, understand the struggles of others, and fight for what we believe in. "Chasing Secrets" is a timeless tale that encourages reflection and sparks conversations, urging readers to explore the depths of their own identities and the secrets that shape their lives.

Gennifer Choldenko's "Chasing Secrets" takes us on an intriguing journey through time, secrets, and the human spirit. With her rich storytelling and well-rounded characters, she transports readers to a pivotal moment in history, encouraging us to reflect on the importance of empathy, resilience, and the pursuit of truth.

So, grab a copy of "Chasing Secrets" and lose yourself in this mesmerizing tale that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

Chasing Secrets

by Gennifer Choldenko(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5297 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	287 pages

FREE

Newbery Honor–winning author Gennifer Choldenko deftly combines humor, tragedy, fascinating historical detail, and a medical mystery in this exuberant new novel.

San Francisco, 1900. The Gilded Age. A fantastic time to be alive for lots of people . . . but not thirteen-year-old Lizzie Kennedy, stuck at Miss Barstow’s snobby school for girls. Lizzie’s secret passion is science, an unsuitable subject for finishing-school girls. Lizzie lives to go on house calls with her physician father. On those visits to his patients, she discovers a hidden dark side of the city—a side that’s full of secrets, rats, and rumors of the plague.

The newspapers, her powerful uncle, and her beloved papa all deny that the plague has reached San Francisco. So why is the heart of the city under quarantine? Why are angry mobs trying to burn Chinatown to the ground? Why is Noah, the Chinese cook’s son, suddenly making Lizzie question everything she has known to be true? Ignoring the rules of race and class, Lizzie and Noah must put the pieces together in a heart-stopping race to save the people they love.

Winner of a Los Angeles Public Library FOCAL (Friends of Children and Literature) Award
Nominated for:
Pennsylvania Young Reader’s Choice Awards
Tennessee Volunteer State Book Award (Middle School division)
Missouri Association of School Librarians (MASL) Readers Award
California Library Association’s Beatty Award, Eureka List