The Good Master
Recommended. Age: 9+. A Catholic review of this book for parents.
Our review
The heart of this book is a father. Uncle Marton is called the Good Master because he rules his home with patience and a firm hand, and a spoiled child grows good under it. Easter and Christmas are kept as real feasts. The reservation is one chapter that paints Romani people as thieves and kidnappers. Correct it when you get there.
For parents
Read aloud from 7, independent reading from 9 or 10. Seton offers it in grade 6. Readers report it tells children Santa Claus is not real, so preview that page. Ask what Uncle Marton does when Kate misbehaves and why it works. Ask whether a whole people can fairly be called thieves.