Ella and Holden were best friends as children, as were their parents. Around three years of age, Holden's life dramatically changed and he developed aut...moreElla and Holden were best friends as children, as were their parents. Around three years of age, Holden's life dramatically changed and he developed autism. The families drifted apart as they coped with the changes stemming from Holden's diagnosis. Fast forward 15 years, Ella realizes that the young, handsome man that her boyfriend, Jake and his football friends are bullying at school, is the same Holden. As she practices for her senior play, Ella also realizes that the music is changing and unlocking the doors within Holden. Can Ella help her best friend and stop the torment at her high school before someone gets hurt? A revealing look at autism and the pain caused from bullying. (less)
I haven't read Call It Courage, a juvenile Newbery Medal winner, in many a moon. A friend had returned it to the library and she left a note about how...moreI haven't read Call It Courage, a juvenile Newbery Medal winner, in many a moon. A friend had returned it to the library and she left a note about how much she had enjoyed reading it as a child. So to refresh my memory - I reread it myself. This particular copy included the preserved original, beautiful blue and white illustrations.
Mafatu, 15 year old son of a Polynesian island chief, has had great loss in his life. His mother died when he was only three. Both had been at sea in their small canoe when a great storm flung them into the shark infested water. Barely alive, both had been washed to a nearby island. Only Mafatu survived - but was left with nightmares and a fear of the water so great that it impairs his daily life. At last, tired of the talk and judgment in the eyes of his people, Mafatu decides to strike out and confront his fear of the ocean - with only his friends, Uri, his pup,in the canoe and Kivi, his pet albatross, in the air. In the coming days, Mafatu's courage is tested over and over again and although he feels very small and alone in the world, he rises to meet the many challenges. With each hurdle crossed, Mafatu becomes more self assured and confident.
Anyone that is bullied or has a fear confronting an issue, juvenile or adult alike, would be advised to read this simple but rich story of historical fiction published originally in 1940. And in its simplicity, lies part of the charm...(less)
Natalie Gallagher, 13 and neglected - due to her parent's divorce, a father who is caught up in his new girlfriend and a mother who has slid into deep...moreNatalie Gallagher, 13 and neglected - due to her parent's divorce, a father who is caught up in his new girlfriend and a mother who has slid into deep depression - is a girl on the brink. Her once best friend is now a cyberbully partner with popular Taylor Grant and the two send text messages that are cutting, cruel, and demeaning. When Natalie finds an old diary in the basement, while looking for family birth records, she heads to the city library archive where she meets 50 something Kathleen Lynch - who has lost her own teenage daughter to drugs. Kathleen, with the help of her coworker, Neil, is determined to decipher the diary's illegible writing and save Natalie.
Very current, very deep, and very moving - once again I found a book that couldn't be put down.(less)
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