grape

__Grape Thief__, by Kristine L. Franklin ISBN: 0-7636-1325-8 c2003 290 pages

-p. 5 where we find out why “Cuss” has his nickname -pp. 32-35 where Cuss and his friend try to steal grapes off the train
 * Good sections to read aloud:**

Slava (AKA: Cuss) is 12 years old and lives with his mother, sister and three brothers on a small farm during 1925. His family is not very well off, so they work together and try to do the best that they can. Cuss loves school (secretly), and doesn’t want to end up a miner like most of the other boys in this rural town. Events happen that force Cuss to make some tough decisions that end up affecting not only his family and friends, but his beloved Latin teacher and Priest, Father Duval.
 * Summary:**

YA Fiction--historical fiction; city and town life; Washington (state); Croatian Americans; grapes; murder; friendship
 * ©Steele-WDMS**