Justine Silver is not necessarily proud to be Jewish. It’s not that she doesn’t partially appreciate her family and culture. It’s just that her friend, Mary Catherine, is Catholic and that religion seems to come with more perks. Sara Darer Littman gives us a funny yet heartfelt story about a girl finding herself and coming to appreciate everything she brings to the table in Confessions of a Closet Catholic.
The Grass is Greener
Justine does not fully appreciate the heritage of her family for many reasons. She cannot bond with her sister, her mom is overbearing, and her dad works all the time. At some level, it feels as if the Silver household is more of an operation than a family unit.
Justine envies her friend, Mary Catherine, whose home life is more relaxed. Mary Catherine just happens to be Catholic, which leads Justine to believe her life would be better if she ditched Judaism to practice Catholicism. From taking the Eucharist in the closet to eventually sneaking around for a confession session with a priest, Justine is determined to be someone she isn’t.
But what happens when a family emergency threatens to change the household’s dynamic forever? Justine will have to decide if giving up Judaism is truly right for her.
A Rich Heritage
One of many things that I love about Confessions of a Closet Catholic is the serious tone the story takes when Justine’s grandmother experiences a medical emergency. Everything is fun and games for the youngster until she realizes how much of a rich heritage her grandma possesses. It is through this realization that Justine determines the best way forward in life.
For Middle Schoolers
Confessions of a Closet Catholic by Sara Darer Littman is a great choice for Middle Grade students. This book offers an impactful story that teaches kids the importance of family and culture.