The Black Canary. By Jane Louise Curry. Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing, 2005. 288 pages. Tr. $17.99 ISBN 978-0689864780
Summary: James resents his white musicologist father and his black opera-singing mother for pressuring him to enter the music fold. When traveling to London, however, he notices a flying disc from his dream, and enters a portal to the 1600s. Once there he’s captured, and forced to perform as a singer in “Children of the Royal Chapel” for Queen Elizabeth. James must decide whether it’s in his best interest to return to the 21st century or if he should stay in Tudor England.
Critical Review: Curry’s novel is one of a few featuring biracial characters. James is a realistic, sympathetic character in both worlds. Lovers of historical fiction will cherish the authentic portrait of Elizabethan theatre, fashion, food, and other customs. Real-life characters, like the playwright and actor Ben Jonson, mingle with fictional creations. Singing for Queen Elizabeth teaches James that he does, indeed, enjoy singing. He is a remarkably talented singer. James returns to the 21st century with a more complete awareness of himself as a person, and how he can meaningfully contribute to the world.
Genre: Science Fiction; Time-Travel Fiction; Historical Fiction
Reading/Interest Level: 10-14 years
Reviews: Voice of Youth Advocates (2005, June 1); School Library Journal (2005, March 1); Booklist (2005, February 15)
Similar Materials: Susan Cooper’s King of the Shadows
Subjects/Themes: time-travel fiction; historical fiction; Europe; performing arts; singing; Elizabethan London – Great Britain; racially-mixed-people fiction
Character Names: James Parrett; Mr. and Mrs. Parrett; Jack
Brief Annotation: A 21sT century biracial boy travels back in time to Elizabethan England, developing a deeper understanding of his talents and passions.
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