Miracle on 49th Street

Mike Lupica
Philomel Books (2006)
ISBN 0399244883
Reviewed by Debra Gaynor for Reader Views (10/06)

Twelve year old Molly Parker is brave, funny and smart.  Before her mother, Jen, dies she reveals the true identity of Molly’s father, Josh Cameron.  Molly has just arrived in the states from England with the intention of meeting her father.

Josh Cameron is a basketball player for the Celtics.  Molly waits in a parking lot for an opportunity to tell Josh that he’s her father.  Josh remembers Jen well, but never knew he had a child.  Molly wouldn’t make up a story like that but Josh refused to believe her.  When the two get to know each other better, Molly is the one with doubts, Josh just doesn’t seem right for her mother.

Eventually Josh apologies and tells Molly how she reminds him of her mother.  Molly begins to realize why her mother never wanted her to get to know the real Josh, the one not on TV.  Barbara, Molly’s guardian tries to warn her. “He won’t be the father you want him to be.”  “Do you really believe he’s going to make room for a child in his life?  You think he won’t hurt you?  Nobody ever hurt your mom the way he did.”

“Whether she’s mine or not,” Josh Cameron said.   “I’d only say this to you.  But, even if she is mine, I’ve go not place for her in my life.”  Only love can break down the barrier and make these two a family.

Mike Lupica’s “Miracle on 49th Street” is a beautifully written story of a child searching for her father.  The print is easy to read.  The cover is pretty and enticed me to open the book and dive into the story.  The characters come to life on the pages.  I found this story entertaining and delightful.  This book will become a holiday classic.  I highly recommend this book.

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