This historical fiction book follows the journey of a young man to America determined to make his mark in retail. He meets many obstacles along his way including robbery and fire but never gives up his dream and eventually realizes his dream through hard work and belief in himself. I like the book as it documents the most humble beginnings of our immigrant ancestors and illustrates to children the qualities that are needed to be a success in America then and now. The pictures are rich in detail and the book could probably be understood alone through illustrations. It is a story about never giving up and following your dreams wherever you come from. Well done. ( )

This picture book told the story of Solomon, a Lebanese immigrant to the United States. He arrives by steamship after a 4 week journey, and using prior knowledge I have about immigration, I’m assuming he journeyed here in about 1900. He dreams of being a store owner and bringing his betrothed across the ocean as well. I think this would be a good question, “Do you know what the word betrothed means?” And explain it was a old fashioned way of saying engaged. The main character has to overcome several adversities for his dreams to come true. I gave it 4 stars because, while it was a good story, I thought it was a bit generic. ( )