Just Call Me Joe

Alison Mews is co-ordinator of the Centre for Instructional Services at
Memorial University of Newfoundland.

In 1909, 10-year-old Joseph travels with his sister Anna to America to
escape the oppression Jews face in Russia. Living with Aunt Sophie, they
encounter a different sort of oppression—that of the working poor in
New York. Joseph’s desire to become an American is exemplified by his
wish to be called Joe, as he struggles to learn English and make
friends. His eagerness to be accepted by the neighbouring boys overcomes
his abhorrence of lying and truancy, but he stops short of stealing. As
he reasserts his values, he learns that integrity has its own rewards.

Wishinsky, whose own family immigrated to New York when she was a baby,
handles the immigrant experience with sensitivity, honesty, and
authenticity. She adeptly conveys the emotional roller coaster
experienced by newly landed immigrants, from the initial fear of not
being admitted to the relief of finding work, and from the hopelessness
of appalling working conditions to the promise of changes through worker
solidarity. For Joseph and Anna, the constant financial strain and the
worry about their parents in Russia are balanced with the possibilities
for a prosperous and secure future.

For anyone who was ever the new kid on the block, or ever had to cope
with huge changes in life, this easy-to-read book will have great
appeal. Highly recommended.