A Difficult Boy by M.P. Barker
Posted by Michelle on July 24, 2008
Set in 1839, A Difficult Boy tells the story of Ethan, who is sent to work for My Lyman, a wealthy shopkeeper. Being close to his family, this is not something he wishes to do, but it’s made necessary by the debts that the family have with My Lyman.
Once there, he meets Daniel, an Irish immigrant, who has been labelled as a ‘difficult boy’. Ethan soon realises that Daniel is the victim of both racism and violent abuse, as Mr Lyman’s discipline often includes beatings.
Despite Daniel’s coolness to everyone, a spark of friendship is soon seen between the two boys, and it steadily grows throughout the book.
For me, the first half of the book was a little too slow, although the author does a good job of setting up the various characters, and strands of the story. It’s worth continuing with, however, because as the story reached it’s conclusion, I was surprised to find how involved I had become with these characters, and how much I cared about the story outcome. For me, I would have preferred to see some of the earlier book shortened, with the ending made a little longer, but that is a personal opinion. 
For those interested in American history, this would make an interesting read, but it’s also a warming tale of friendship, and overcoming difficulties.
