Call Me Ruth

Doubleday Beech Tree Paperback

A turn of the century story about a mother and daughter who come as immigrants to America. Devoted to each other in the old country, their paths diverge as they encounter conflicting ideas about what it means to be an American. Ruth, the daughter, learns English quickly goes to school, and wants to be just like her beautiful, prejudiced teacher. Fanny, the mother, never really learns English, works long hours in a sweat shop, goes out on strike, and gets arrested for her union activities. Mother and daughter finally come to terms with each other’s different hopes and ambitions.

Horn Book:

“A moving and vivid picture.”

Awards:

Association of Jewish Libraries Award; PEN Special Commendation Award.