Thursday, June 13, 2019

Learn About New Orleans With Cécile and Marie-Grace Dolls

American Girl Books by Denise Lewis Patrick
       Cécile Rey is from a rich African American family that originated from New Orleans, Louisiana. She loves listening to her grandfather's tales about the sea. She meets Marie-Grace during one of her singing lessons. At first, she is not fond of her because she is white, but eventually warms up to her and becomes her best friend. When Yellow Fever strikes her brother, she decides to use her gifts to help him and others. Themes include the loss of family and caring for others in need, and volunteering. Cecile speaks French and her French words are described in the glossary in the back of her book. Though Cécile Rey and Marie-Grace are best friends, they shared the same level of importance and a few items in their collection as well as a book, unlike other Best Friend characters. Cecile was also the second African American character made by American Girl. The first being Addy and the third being Melody. Cecile was archived with Marie-Grace, Ivy, and Ruthie in 2014 to make room for BeForever and the return of Samantha.
       Marie-Grace Gardner is a girl from New Orleans. Similar to Josefina, her mother died before the events of the series. She makes a friend with Cécile Rey in her first days in New Orleans, although the latter was not interested at first. However, changes are in the air. Soon, Marie-Grace's singing teacher is found sick with yellow fever. Her father, who is a doctor, saves not only the teacher, but others in his aid. She also rescues a baby and forms a close bond with other children. 
New Orleans in 1853:
    Yellow Fever Epidemic:
    Orphans In America, 1853:
    Mardi Gras for Kids:
    Fan Videos for Cécile Rey and Marie-Grace Gardner:
    • Meet Marie Grace
    • Meet Cecile
    • Marie-Grace and the Orphans
    • Troubles for Cecile
    • Mare-Grace Makes a Difference
    • The Hidden Gold
    • The Cameo Necklace
    • The Haunted Opera
    Advanced Reading: Historical Fiction
    • Look to the Hills: The Diary of Lozette Moreau, a French slave Girl by Patricia C. McKissack 

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