On a church camping trip, Debbie reveals that her mom is really in a rehabilitation center and is an alcoholic. Everyone has been led to believe that Mrs. Colbert has been away on business since they moved into Plains Estates. Why now is Debbie sharing this secret with her friends? Her mom is coming home and her family will have to begin to confront not only their lies to the community but also their innermost fears and emotions. The Walkers are faced with the most difficult decision of their life. Should they tell Tammy that she is adopted now that her birth mother wants to meet her? How will this affect their family? Tammy’s birth mother is happily married now and making a good living. Does she really want her child back? Will the return of Tammy’s mother break up the Walker family?

Mr. Bates is released from jail after serving six months for child molestation. What lies ahead for his son and family after both the church and his peers find out Alan’s secret? Cuban refuge Alejandro Hernandez’s son, Alfredo, has been molested by a bishop in the Catholic Church. Can his family survive their journey and reclaim their faith? American-born Jesus Ramirez applies for a position at Shelton’s. He is embarrassed when the manager implies that he is an illegal alien in front of listening customers. Will Jesus walk out of the interview or prove he is qualified for the job? Glen is out of the “slow” class, but the abandonment by his father is still painful. Glen reaches out to his father with a birthday card. Will Glen's father finally have room for him in his heart?

“Silent Tears: Children of Plains Estates

Alan Bates is dead, but it is only the beginning for Justin and Carl. They are charged with bullying. As the trial escalates, their mother, Mrs. Bates, and the boys are put on trial in order to explore all sides of this controversial indictment.

 

 

 

 

Great Book, A Kid's Review
Ms. Milner came to our school in Florida and spoke to our class. I told her I never read and so she gave me a signed copy of her book. What I liked most is that the characters were real and she understands what really goes on in school. Most adults don't have a clue. I loved the book and hope she will come back when the next book comes out. Read her book. She really cares and takes the time to talk with you. She listened to everybody and gave away extra free copies.  
BOUNDARY
 Entertaining, Realistic , Simple Yet Riveting!, By Janice Downs "Counselor II" (Valparaiso, In. USA) - See all my reviews
   This author has touched on subject matter which children and families have faced for years that have been kept secret and underestimated as to psychological, emotional and physical impact. However she has shown an ability that helps young children relate and understand that their are positive and healthy alternatives to secrecy. I love how the issues that each character faces always promotes telling someone. It is nothing wrong with seeking counseling and dispelling the myth that what happens in the family stays in the family. This author demonstrated her ability to keep the material simple yet entertaining which keeps your attention in addition to keeping a roller coaster ride of emotions from anger, shame, happiness and relief. A must read!  Comment | Permalink | Was this review helpful to you? 
 wonderful reading, By Gail Francis Vonwald - See all my reviews
   Claudette Milner showed herself a wonderful writer in "The Children Of Plain Estates." Her collection of stories of the children of a housing development, their battles and victories dealt with many modern issues and I found the reading very entertaining. Von VonWald  

Realistic and Provacative
I read this book two times. This author is not afraid to confront real life issues. Ms. Milner forces the reader to confront his or her own stereotypes and prejudices. Read more Published on May 16, 2005 by Taylor Brown The Sleeper of 2004
Children of Plains is possibly the sleeper of 2004. As an educator my favorite character is Glen. Glen is in "the slow class". Read more Published on February 10, 2004 BOUNDARY
From the mouths of Babes!
From the mouths of Babes!, By Betsie's Literary Page (United States) - See all my reviews
Claudette Milner's novel, Children of Plains Estates is the perfect definition for the melting pot called "America." The story unfolds among the children and parents of Plains Estates subdivision. There are two schools that these middle aged children attend, Radcliffe the prestigious private school and Glendale public elementary. The author reveals the differences, fears, and challenges of these families through the eyes of the children. In spite of their diversities, the children develop close friendships, which cause them to share the family secrets with one another. The parents concern for their own children cause them to bond and seek solutions for these problems, for the sake of the children. During several community and school activities, it is discovered that Debbie's mom is an alcoholic, Rita has sickle cell, Tammy is adopted, and Stacey, a Radcliffe student has aids. Also one of Radcliffe's top athlete's is dealing drugs! To add insult to injury, the school board has allowed the enrollment of an African-American student as well. The camaraderie of Plains Estates awakened past memories for this reviewer. As a child growing up in a metropolitan city, we had block units. These block units were established and comprised by parents in the community who organized committees, supervised protection, and planned activities for the youth. We, as neighbors, knew each other well and watched out for one another. Presently I have lived in my house for over six years and only know the first names of those that live on either side of me. Whereas in the past one not only knew his neighbors first and last name, but also people were less fearful and more trusting of one another with higher moral values. In comparison, today people are overly cautiously related to high crime, increase use of drugs and decrease of moral values. The author brilliantly uses simplistic views and emotions of children to expose "our" prejudices, bigotries, and unfounded apprehensions based on lack of knowledge and understanding of cultural, racial, physical, and psychological differences. I applaud you Ms. Milner, this novel; "Children of Plains Estates" could easily be viewed as the poster child for diversity training. It causes one to reflect on what individual adjustments can be made to ensure peaceful harmony in the face of diversity.
 A Must Read for Adults and Juvenile Readers
Children of Plains Estates is a multicultural book that focuses on issues concerning juvenile readers. Read more Published on January 8, 2004 by Taylor Brown “Unheard Voices: Children of Plains estates honorable Mention: London Book Festival 2008Amazon.Com  "Unheard Voices" Children of Plains Estates ***** This prolific writer has stepped up her game in her new novel "Unheard Voices": Children of plains Estates. Ms. Milner continues the story lines of Children of Plains Estates while incorporating new characters into the equation. The reader is once again challenged to face their own stereotypes about class, religion, and gender. This writer's strength is that she is able to make you feel the pain and emotions of each character while bringing understanding to their plight. Her message is clear. Until we listen to the unheard voices our children cannot begin to heal. This is an exceptional piece of work by a relatively unknown author. Once again the cliff hanger leaves you waiting on her next

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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