Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Agent 87

Thirteen-year-old,
math-whiz, Talia Schumacher, the narrator of One Is Not A Lonely Number
by Evelyn Krieger, is an only child who wishes she wasnt. All her friends in
her Jewish day school have siblings, which makes her want a sibling even more.
Talia lives in a large home in the fictional town of Greensborough,
Massachusetts with her wealthy and hospitable parents. Each week Talias Mother
and Father host a variety of guests for the Jewish Sabbath as well as other
holidays. Our house is an open house, Mrs. Schumacher tells Talia when she
complains about having so many guests. Talia doesnt understand why her parents
go above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to Jewish hospitality. One
day, Gabrielle Markus, a twenty-three-year-old soul-searching ballet-dancer
shows up on the Schumachers doorstep. After a couple weeks go by, Talia
realizes that Gabrielle isnt leaving anytime soon. Gabrielles eccentric
personality is driving Talia nuts. Soon Gabrielle becomes involved in Talias
life in more ways than she would like. Talia is sure Gabrielle is hiding a
secret, and with the help of her three best friends, she sets out to learn more
about Gabrielles mysterious past. Along the way, Talia discovers things about
herself, friendship, and family.

Talias quirky number sense (numbers have colors and personalities!)
adds a special touch to this story, and themes of loneliness, friendship and
unity are weaved into this fantastic read. The author breathes life into the
characters through dialogue, personality and bits of humor. The twists and
turns in the story kept me reading all night. Girls, especially, will enjoy this unique and engaging read from start to finish!