The book was truly refreshing! I love the characters, and the genuine stories reflect Perry County, Pennsylvania, very well. The historical moments are great!
--Harriet Magee of Duncannon, Pennsylvania, an educator and historian.
I can’t decide if the book is for the kids or the great-grannies!
-Larry Reisinger of Wila, Pennsylvania, a Perry County native
This is truly a worthy historical read for kids and adults.
--Jane Stambaugh of Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania, a Perry County native and former educator.
Noye takes young readers on a trip into the past, opening doors to the history of Perry County—a microcosm of early life in central Pennsylvania. Noye weaves a wonderful story connecting Perry County’s past with the present—giving the readers and their families a chance to take the book’s tour and then discover the riches of the area for themselves.
--Jean Tuzinski, an educator and historian
The delightful characters in this book reflect authentic Perry County… people living and interacting with their community in a real environment that reflects the past and present of the county. I was actively engaged and eager to learn what the mischief, discovery, or exploration the next page would bring! The book left me wanting to learn more about the county’s history and heritage.
--BJ Berquist, an arts educator
Debra Noye has crafted a delightful historical novel for pre-teens, Great-Granny’s Scrapbook…Her heroes are two pre-teenage boys, Jeremiah and the first-person narrator, who stumble on an old scrapbook that shows this Pennsylvania county’s history from a woman who lived and worked a farm in its western, most rural area…Ms. Noye shows us the boys’ exuberant antics and their unending curiosity as they learn about their past and present.
The novel reminds locals of things long gone, such as the Hi-Way Theater in Ickesburg, PA, where one would hear the bowling balls hitting the pins downstairs as upstairs one watched a first-run movie.
Ms. Noye’s novel depicts a time that is almost forgotten; a time when neighbors helped each other and a ride in the country was a Sunday treat. Pre-teens will benefit from the history detailed in the novel and its message of never forget one’s past and roots.
Great Granny’s Scrapbook is perfect for a young reader just beginning chapter books. The language is appropriate and on grade level for a pre-teen. Although the characters are boys, girls will appreciate the history, story, and the family life portrayed…If one is looking for a children’s book set in a rural area with an historical basis, no bad language, and a positive theme, Great Granny’s Scrapbooks will not disappoint.
--Patricia R. McAteer, D Ed
When I read the original draft of the book, I was frankly shocked at how well Deb was able to weave imagination, real life experience, and Perry County history into a story that every Perry Countian should read. It really brings our rural heritage to life for everyone, young or old.
--Fred Charles Noye, former Pennsylvania Representative for the 86th District for twenty years
