“Shoebox Baby” by Sharon Bruce

Shoebox Baby

Sharon Bruce
Tellwell Talent (2023)
ISBN: 978-0228890645
Reviewed by Stephanie Elizabeth Long for Reader Views (05/23)

When little Suzie Fenton was born too early, the doctor prepared her mother for the worst, insisting she would likely die before the morning. But Suzie was a fighter from the get-go, and she continued to prove her resilience in the following years. Like many families during the Great Depression, her family had very few resources and resided in a tiny shack in Nova Scotia. Still, despite these dire circumstances, the head of the Fenton household, Grace, affectionately called Maw, always ensured her brood was well-loved.

Based on a true story, author Sharon Bruce acquainted readers with the lovable family of little means as they pushed through their fair share of adversity, including Polio, TB, the Second World War, and poverty. Still, it wasn’t all doom and gloom for the Fentons; plenty of joy and laughter flowed through their home.

“Shoebox Baby” by Sharon Bruce is a non-fiction story following the Fenton family, particularly Suzie Fenton, as she evolves. Plagued by the damaging effects of polio, Suzie’s disability prevents her from walking and using her right arm, causing the little girl insurmountable pain and ridicule. Reeling in agony from shock treatments and dislocation, poor Suzie endured a lot. Still, her deep yearning for a sense of normalcy ignites a fire within. She perseveres, proving that this is a book about overcoming—one that will have readers enthusiastically cheering for Suzie every step of the way. 

The Fenton household deftly highlighted the collective plight many experienced during the late nineteen thirties and forties. In a time when resources were scant, there was no time to fret about one’s situation; the Fentons were no exception. The way Maw saw it, you did whatever you had to to survive, and complaining wouldn’t change a thing. Given responsibilities like birthing her babies, collecting wood for the stove, cooking, and cleaning, every member worked together, and the family operated like a well-oiled machine. I loved how she instilled this can-do attitude in her children, particularly Suzie, who never surrendered even though she had to work twice as hard as her siblings.

Despite the trying times, there was no shortage of humorous situations to entertain me. Thanks to the colorful cast of characters, readers can expect to be engaged as the author places them in various conundrums. From hiding in trees and being haunted by a ghost, to teaching hilarious lessons to boozing family members, the hilarity ensued. Plus, Maw’s quick wit and comments are worthy of praise (just don’t get her mad!)

Overall, Sharon Bruce’s “Shoebox Baby” was an enjoyable read. For readers who love historical fiction focusing on familial relationships, this one will scratch the itch. Moreover, the focus on building strength and overcoming obstacles is wonderfully illustrated. Five stars!