Father's Arcane Daughter

by E.L. Konigsburg


Originally written for children, this is a wonderful read for all ages. The book vividly illustrates how fear and misperceptions about a disability can be more disabling than the condition itself, both for the person who has the condition and his or her family.

The Carmichaels obtain all the luxury of a high society family in the 1950's but their lack of trust and courage holds them back from many experiences. Mr. and Mrs. Carmichael are very protective of their children Winston and Heidi. Heidi has a disability that makes it difficult for her to do everyday tasks. Her parents are so protective of her that she hasn't had many opportunities to try daily activities for herself. Winston helps his parents with the care of his younger sister. He feels compelled to help his sister but it also makes him feel trapped. He does not like to have friends come over because he feels embarrassed about Heidi.

One day there is a knock at the door, a young woman saying she is Caroline, Mr. Carmichael's oldest daughter who was kidnapped and thought to be dead. Many questions arise regarding whether this truly is Caroline and why has she waited so long to contact her family.

Caroline begins seeing that Heidi has far more capabilities than anyone knew she had. Caroline sees that Heidi needs to have more opportunities to expand her horizons. Caroline introduces Heidi and Winston to ideas that impact them for the rest of their lives.


by Audrey Upton, guest writer


Updated: 08/03/2010