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Just a Drop of Water
Ever since he was little, Jake Green has longed to be a soldier and a hero like his grandpa, who died serving his country. Right now, though, he just wants to outsmart—and outrun—the rival cross country team, the Palmetto Bugs. But then the tragedy of September 11 happens. It’s quickly discovered that one of the hijackers lived nearby, making Jake’s Florida town an FBI hot spot. Two days later, the tragedy becomes even more personal when Jake’s best friend, Sam Madina, is pummeled for being an Arab Muslim by their bully classmate, Bobby.
According to Jake’s personal code of conduct, anyone who beats up your best friend is due for a butt kicking, and so Jake goes after Bobby. But soon after, Sam’s father is detained by the FBI and Jake’s mom doubts the innocence of Sam’s family, forcing Jake to choose between his best friend and his parents. When Jake finds out that Sam’s been keeping secrets, too, he doesn’t know who his allies are anymore. But the final blow comes when his grandpa’s real past is revealed to Jake. Suddenly, everything he ever knew to be true feels like one big lie. In the end, he must decide: either walk away from Sam and the revenge that Bobby has planned, or become the hero he’s always aspired to be.
A gripping and intensely touching debut middle grade novel by Kerry O’Malley Cerra, Just a Drop of Water brings the events of September 11, which shook the world, into the lens of a young boy who is desperately trying to understand the ramifications of this life-altering event.
Winner of a Florida Book Award, the Crystal Kite Award, and named to VOYAs Top Shelf Fiction for Middle Readers' 2014 list, Just a Drop of Water is a read for all age levels.
According to Jake’s personal code of conduct, anyone who beats up your best friend is due for a butt kicking, and so Jake goes after Bobby. But soon after, Sam’s father is detained by the FBI and Jake’s mom doubts the innocence of Sam’s family, forcing Jake to choose between his best friend and his parents. When Jake finds out that Sam’s been keeping secrets, too, he doesn’t know who his allies are anymore. But the final blow comes when his grandpa’s real past is revealed to Jake. Suddenly, everything he ever knew to be true feels like one big lie. In the end, he must decide: either walk away from Sam and the revenge that Bobby has planned, or become the hero he’s always aspired to be.
A gripping and intensely touching debut middle grade novel by Kerry O’Malley Cerra, Just a Drop of Water brings the events of September 11, which shook the world, into the lens of a young boy who is desperately trying to understand the ramifications of this life-altering event.
Winner of a Florida Book Award, the Crystal Kite Award, and named to VOYAs Top Shelf Fiction for Middle Readers' 2014 list, Just a Drop of Water is a read for all age levels.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published September 2, 2014
About the author
Kerry O'Malley Cerra
3 books70 followersKerry O'Malley Cerra is the author of the award-winning, middle-grade novel JUST A DROP OF WATER, which won a Florida Book Award, the Crystal Kite Award, and was named to VOYAs Top Shelf Fiction for Middle Readers' 2014 list. In addition, the book has been named a finalist for the 2015-2016 Maine Student Book Award, the 2016-2017 Truman Award (Missouri), and the 2016-2017 Magnolia Award (Mississippi).
Her second novel, HEAR ME, is out now from Lerner/Carolrhoda Books. This #ownvoices contemporary middle-grade novel follows 12-year-old Rayne who, at odds with her parents over her sudden hearing loss and looming cochlear implant surgery, sets off on a journey where she discovers that even though her ears may be broken, she is not.
Kerry holds a degree in Social Science Education from the University of South Florida and continues to use her teaching skills in author presentations at schools across the country. She served as the Critique Coordinator for the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) Florida chapter for ten years.
Though she'll always consider South Jersey/Philly her home, she currently lives in Florida with her husband, kids, and two poorly behaved rescue dogs.
Her second novel, HEAR ME, is out now from Lerner/Carolrhoda Books. This #ownvoices contemporary middle-grade novel follows 12-year-old Rayne who, at odds with her parents over her sudden hearing loss and looming cochlear implant surgery, sets off on a journey where she discovers that even though her ears may be broken, she is not.
Kerry holds a degree in Social Science Education from the University of South Florida and continues to use her teaching skills in author presentations at schools across the country. She served as the Critique Coordinator for the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) Florida chapter for ten years.
Though she'll always consider South Jersey/Philly her home, she currently lives in Florida with her husband, kids, and two poorly behaved rescue dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 162 reviews
October 18, 2016
Easily one of my favorite books I have read this year. This is not only an excellent middle grade book, it is just a good book in general for anyone wanting to read historical fiction about 9/11. The author managed to convey perfectly the mood and atmosphere of the nation during the days after the attacks.
Jake Green's biggest problem before September 11, 2001 was wanting to beat a member of a rival cross-country team in the next race. However, the attacks on U.S. soil change everything including relationships he has with his family and friends. When Jake's best friend, Sam Madina, is beaten up for being an Arab Muslim, he fights right back to defend him. The FBI soon goes after Sam's father and many people including Jake's mother wonder what the Madina family is hiding. Did Mr. Madina help some of the hijackers before the attacks?
What I enjoyed most about this book was how it captured the feelings and actions of people in this nation after the attacks. It showed the kindness people had to one another. It showed how some people outwardly displayed their hatred of Muslims. And it also illustrated the fear that kept people from wanting to associate with anyone they thought was Muslim.
While I won this book in a giveaway, that in no way influenced my thoughts and opinions. I truly loved this book and am thankful I was given the opportunity to read it.
Jake Green's biggest problem before September 11, 2001 was wanting to beat a member of a rival cross-country team in the next race. However, the attacks on U.S. soil change everything including relationships he has with his family and friends. When Jake's best friend, Sam Madina, is beaten up for being an Arab Muslim, he fights right back to defend him. The FBI soon goes after Sam's father and many people including Jake's mother wonder what the Madina family is hiding. Did Mr. Madina help some of the hijackers before the attacks?
What I enjoyed most about this book was how it captured the feelings and actions of people in this nation after the attacks. It showed the kindness people had to one another. It showed how some people outwardly displayed their hatred of Muslims. And it also illustrated the fear that kept people from wanting to associate with anyone they thought was Muslim.
While I won this book in a giveaway, that in no way influenced my thoughts and opinions. I truly loved this book and am thankful I was given the opportunity to read it.
January 28, 2014
Just a Drop of Water, is an engaging story geared for middle grade readers. However the theme and the messages conveyed in the book span all ages. Reading this story I was inspired by Jake's struggle, his perseverance and ultimately his choices.
July 9, 2014
I was able to read this ARC as a member of the Fearless Fiteeners. Kerry's debut novel allows middle schoolers to experience the events of 9/11 through the eyes of Jake Green, a character their own age. As a teacher, I think this is an ideal way to introduce students to tough subjects and moments in history. The description of the attacks on 9/11 gave me chills, and the things that happen with Jake's family and friends afterward are examples of what happened throughout the country. Kerry also "gets" middle school boy in that Jake is confident one minute and confused the next, all the while believing he is right and can fix things :.)
August 15, 2014
A Must Read-- no really.
I had the good fortune of reading this book when I was in a writing workshop with the author. I also had the misfortune of witnessing 9/11 from my side of the Hudson river where we lived on that day.
I always wondered how the other part of America viewed the event and it absolutely shocked me to discover, through reading this book, that perhaps the rest of America had just as profound and visceral a reaction to the event as anyone who witnessed it up close.
America was different after that day, and I believe this is one of those books that will help tell our young ones exactly what it was like to be one thing one day and something completely different the next. The book is wonderfully written and set in a very unique setting. This novel magnificently captures the pulse of the nation both big and small as all of us, even those in the far corners of Florida, struggled with the horror of that day.
I can't recommend this book highly enough for having the boldness to tell a story so close to the soul of America. Kudos to the author and if you are still considering whether or not to read this book... I'm insisting that you must.
I had the good fortune of reading this book when I was in a writing workshop with the author. I also had the misfortune of witnessing 9/11 from my side of the Hudson river where we lived on that day.
I always wondered how the other part of America viewed the event and it absolutely shocked me to discover, through reading this book, that perhaps the rest of America had just as profound and visceral a reaction to the event as anyone who witnessed it up close.
America was different after that day, and I believe this is one of those books that will help tell our young ones exactly what it was like to be one thing one day and something completely different the next. The book is wonderfully written and set in a very unique setting. This novel magnificently captures the pulse of the nation both big and small as all of us, even those in the far corners of Florida, struggled with the horror of that day.
I can't recommend this book highly enough for having the boldness to tell a story so close to the soul of America. Kudos to the author and if you are still considering whether or not to read this book... I'm insisting that you must.
August 30, 2016
Middle grade was going just fine until 9/11. That’s what 13 year old Jake Green thinks. And then his life turns upside down. Classmates turn on each other, his best friend’s family is being questioned by the FBI, and his mother has suddenly become someone he doesn’t know.
“Too bad there are no do-overs in real life.” No matter our age, this line is one we can all relate to. JUST A DROP OF WATER tackled 9/11 and the concept of religious discrimination with heart and honestly. Jake’s anger and confusion feels real, and his struggle between what he feels in his heart and the questions in his head, will resonate with young readers.
“Too bad there are no do-overs in real life.” No matter our age, this line is one we can all relate to. JUST A DROP OF WATER tackled 9/11 and the concept of religious discrimination with heart and honestly. Jake’s anger and confusion feels real, and his struggle between what he feels in his heart and the questions in his head, will resonate with young readers.
August 22, 2014
This was an absolutely wonderful book! The story is captivating, resonated with feelings and reactions I had myself regarding 9/11, and was wonderfully entertaining as well. I fell in love with the characters and was amazed how the author captured the different moods and feelings of every age group, during that very sad time in American history. I would highly recommend this book for readers of any age.
August 21, 2014
The story of two boys—one Christian, one Muslim—whose friendship is tested in the days following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. A powerful, important book, and a must-read for all age levels.
August 25, 2014
The conversation and thoughts flowed effortlessly..I was so engrossed I found myself feeling protective over the characters..wanting to right the wrongs..excellent book for people too young to remember the events of that tragic day.
Superb.
Superb.
August 24, 2014
Loved it! Reliving September 11, through the eyes of a 13 year old boy brings back the memories of fear, sadness, hatred, patriotism and resilience. Kids who were not alive then will be able to share this part of history with the adults in their life in a positive, thought provoking way.
June 28, 2015
Good book -- good explanations. Worked well to introduce facts. Race/religious views. Both boys and girls will like it. Touching. Interesting relationship with parents. Adding Wilkey's was interesting.
January 1, 2015
This is one of my favorite books of all time! It makes you want to keep reading it and is very unpredictable.
October 8, 2014
Wow. It's hard to believe that a book set immediately before, during, and after September 11th, 2001 is historical fiction, but for the kids whom this book is targeted at, it is. I appreciate the perspective of the book--I think it is unique to have a book about September 11th that doesn't take place in New York and although the main character didn't have anyone close to him die in the attacks, he still feels the reverberations in his life.
Jake lives a normal life in a Florida town. He runs cross country (although he'd rather just stick to track), he and his best friend Sam play video games that Jake's mom probably wouldn't approve of, and Jake even has to help his elderly neighbors with their yard work (under duress, of course). Jake's normal life, sense of safety, and who is on the 'good' side and 'bad' side are completely shattered on September 11th, 2001. His mom is terrified of everything, guys at school are harassing Sam because Sam is of Middle Eastern descent, and Sam's dad has a seemingly insignificant connection to one of the terrorists living in Jake's town that brings the FBI to Sam's door.
I don't know if I would read this again, simply because I think it's a book that you can read once and walk away from it feeling like you got everything you need from it. Jake struggles with what it means to be a hero, he struggles with being 13 and being sheltered from somethings but witnessing others, he struggles with these new terms being thrown around in the news. Jake's voice and thoughts feel like what I remember feeling that day, so I appreciate that.
I think this is a book for the classroom, or for parents and kids to read together, because the conversations that would come of it would be just as good as the book itself.
Jake lives a normal life in a Florida town. He runs cross country (although he'd rather just stick to track), he and his best friend Sam play video games that Jake's mom probably wouldn't approve of, and Jake even has to help his elderly neighbors with their yard work (under duress, of course). Jake's normal life, sense of safety, and who is on the 'good' side and 'bad' side are completely shattered on September 11th, 2001. His mom is terrified of everything, guys at school are harassing Sam because Sam is of Middle Eastern descent, and Sam's dad has a seemingly insignificant connection to one of the terrorists living in Jake's town that brings the FBI to Sam's door.
I don't know if I would read this again, simply because I think it's a book that you can read once and walk away from it feeling like you got everything you need from it. Jake struggles with what it means to be a hero, he struggles with being 13 and being sheltered from somethings but witnessing others, he struggles with these new terms being thrown around in the news. Jake's voice and thoughts feel like what I remember feeling that day, so I appreciate that.
I think this is a book for the classroom, or for parents and kids to read together, because the conversations that would come of it would be just as good as the book itself.
July 10, 2014
This historical fiction novel takes place in the days leading up to and after September 11th, 2001. Set in Coral Springs, Florida the main character, Jake Green, struggles with the knowledge that one of the hijackers was living in his town prior to the attacks. His best friend and neighbor, Sam Medina, an Arab Muslim is targeted by boys in their class whose actions and behavior towards persons of Arab descent is disrespectful and volatile.
When Sam’s father is taken into FBI custody after it is discovered that he serviced the hijacker at the bank he’s employed at prior to September 11th, Jake finds himself at odds with his immediate family as he defends his best friend’s honor and tries to help bring Mr. Medina home.
Tensions run high at Jake’s house as he tries to make sense of his mother’s seasoned prejudices based on family history that Jake doesn’t fully understand. His interest in history and war leads him to develop a relationship with a mysterious neighbor who lived through the attack on Pearl Harbor and its aftermath which contained similar social sentiments.
The author is a former history teacher and uses the friendship between two boys on either side of the divide during a national tragedy to transport middle grade readers into the highly emotional experience of a pivotal point in modern American history. Historical fact and realistic fiction elements are woven together with an expert hand making readers care about this moment in history and giving educators an excellent book sure to spur thoughtful discussion.
Grades 5-8.
When Sam’s father is taken into FBI custody after it is discovered that he serviced the hijacker at the bank he’s employed at prior to September 11th, Jake finds himself at odds with his immediate family as he defends his best friend’s honor and tries to help bring Mr. Medina home.
Tensions run high at Jake’s house as he tries to make sense of his mother’s seasoned prejudices based on family history that Jake doesn’t fully understand. His interest in history and war leads him to develop a relationship with a mysterious neighbor who lived through the attack on Pearl Harbor and its aftermath which contained similar social sentiments.
The author is a former history teacher and uses the friendship between two boys on either side of the divide during a national tragedy to transport middle grade readers into the highly emotional experience of a pivotal point in modern American history. Historical fact and realistic fiction elements are woven together with an expert hand making readers care about this moment in history and giving educators an excellent book sure to spur thoughtful discussion.
Grades 5-8.
July 23, 2015
The students that I will have this year (2015-2016) were born after 9/11. Often when I bring up the events or after-effects of 9/11, I've been faced with vacant stares. The students have little or no understanding of the history presented in JUST A DROP OF WATER other than the generalizations that terrorists flew into tall buildings and killed hundreds.
Kerry O'Malley Cerra has written a perfect middle-school appropriate narrative, a mix of "what ifs" that reflects a variety of ideas, emotions and events that happened after the terrorism attacks on 9/11. Through the eyes of her main character, Jake, and his friends, classmates, family and neighbors, the read gets a broad overview of history.
Unfortunately, hatred, mistrust and misunderstandings still exist in the United States and across the world. This is a middle grade book that I will definitely share with my students (7th/8th grades) and recommend be purchased for class/small group study. I foresee this story sparking deeper understandings and authentic discussions on not only the historical impact of 9/11, but on how race relations, ethnicity and terrorism play a part in our nation's current dialogue.
Kudos, Ms. Cerra, on helping educators like myself, parents, and young readers bridge that gap between knowledge and understanding with this book!
Kerry O'Malley Cerra has written a perfect middle-school appropriate narrative, a mix of "what ifs" that reflects a variety of ideas, emotions and events that happened after the terrorism attacks on 9/11. Through the eyes of her main character, Jake, and his friends, classmates, family and neighbors, the read gets a broad overview of history.
Unfortunately, hatred, mistrust and misunderstandings still exist in the United States and across the world. This is a middle grade book that I will definitely share with my students (7th/8th grades) and recommend be purchased for class/small group study. I foresee this story sparking deeper understandings and authentic discussions on not only the historical impact of 9/11, but on how race relations, ethnicity and terrorism play a part in our nation's current dialogue.
Kudos, Ms. Cerra, on helping educators like myself, parents, and young readers bridge that gap between knowledge and understanding with this book!
September 8, 2020
I read this book 5 years ago with my oldest and held onto our copy to eventually read with my youngest, now 13. I still feel like this is one of the best 9/11 middle school reads. My youngest told me he never really considered the magnitude of the racism and xenophobia that occurred after September 11th. Just a Drop of Water is a great way for young readers to put the years following that fateful day into social, political, and cultural context.
2015 Review:
America became a different country following the events of September 11, 2001. This book looks at one teen's perspective immediately before, during, and after that fateful day. Somehow the author was able to artfully bring to light many complex issues at once: war vs. peace, tolerance, religion, hate, xenophobia, racism, PTSD, friendship, family and so much more. This is an excellent read/read aloud for middle school students. Although it takes place in 2001, many of the themes are still relevant today. It touches on sensitive and emotional subject matter, but is an excellent opportunity to introduce young readers to a painful moment in our recent history.
2015 Review:
America became a different country following the events of September 11, 2001. This book looks at one teen's perspective immediately before, during, and after that fateful day. Somehow the author was able to artfully bring to light many complex issues at once: war vs. peace, tolerance, religion, hate, xenophobia, racism, PTSD, friendship, family and so much more. This is an excellent read/read aloud for middle school students. Although it takes place in 2001, many of the themes are still relevant today. It touches on sensitive and emotional subject matter, but is an excellent opportunity to introduce young readers to a painful moment in our recent history.
June 29, 2015
This. Book. Was. Amazing. I'd give it 6 stars out of 5 if I could. I was hoping it'd be one for my elementary school students to read, but there are some themes and parts of the book that are pretty intense for younger readers.
I love that the main character's favorite football team is Philadelphia: The City of Brotherly Love. Because brotherly love is precisely what Jake Green shows throughout the story, despite his own anger and mixed emotions in the weeks following September 11, 2001. I also love that his best friend's name means "bravery." As a Muslim-American, Sameed finds himself the victim of ignorance and hatred from schoolmates and community members. And like his friend, Jake, he has to show bravery to learn more about who he is and then stand up for it.
There's a very important lesson of brotherly love and acceptance for others' beliefs to be learned from this story. The meaning of the title alone (as explained in the last few chapters) is something that all young readers should embrace. This is a book that should be in all middle school Media Centers!
I love that the main character's favorite football team is Philadelphia: The City of Brotherly Love. Because brotherly love is precisely what Jake Green shows throughout the story, despite his own anger and mixed emotions in the weeks following September 11, 2001. I also love that his best friend's name means "bravery." As a Muslim-American, Sameed finds himself the victim of ignorance and hatred from schoolmates and community members. And like his friend, Jake, he has to show bravery to learn more about who he is and then stand up for it.
There's a very important lesson of brotherly love and acceptance for others' beliefs to be learned from this story. The meaning of the title alone (as explained in the last few chapters) is something that all young readers should embrace. This is a book that should be in all middle school Media Centers!
September 7, 2016
I have read three stories in the last few days about 9/11 for middle grade students. This story is by far my favorite. Jake and Sam have been best friends for years. They run cross country together. They have become friends with the new kid Kirk. His father works in Washington. When 9/11 happens their friendship will be tested. Shortly after this terrible event, Jake's mother begins to flip out. When Jake and Sam's friend Bobby turns against Sam, Jake takes revenge.The reason is simple, Sam is a Muslim American. He has never practiced his religion so he knows nothing about it. When his father is questioned and then taken away by the FBI, people begin to think the worst.
This story shows two things. It shows how so many people came together, and it also shows how some people let fear affect them. When prejudice rears its ugly head what lessons will each of the characters learn?
This is a book I will be reading with my students starting next week. I am so pleased to have had several sites recommend this as a must read book for middle grade classrooms.
This story shows two things. It shows how so many people came together, and it also shows how some people let fear affect them. When prejudice rears its ugly head what lessons will each of the characters learn?
This is a book I will be reading with my students starting next week. I am so pleased to have had several sites recommend this as a must read book for middle grade classrooms.
August 24, 2014
'Just a Drop of Water' should be on all middle school reading lists. Kerry O'Malley Cerra brings to life the sensitive topic of September 11, 2001 through the eyes, thoughts and raw passion of 13 year old Jake Green. She truly captures the real emotion and struggle of a young teenager as he strives to make sense of his world as it is suddenly turned upside down. Readers, regardless of age, can relate to the memorable characters painted for us in a realistic way. I will be using Cerra's novel to bring to life for my 8th grader events in history that she has only heard about. What better way to open up discussion of the time period surrounding 9/11 than through Jake Green as he struggles to understand the web of conflicts that are thrust into his community. Our family will need more copies of this page-turner!
August 24, 2014
Just a drop of water is must read!
13 year old Jake Green's struggle to understand his world in the aftermath of the September 11th tragedies is deeply moving. Jake is forced to question and rethink everything he believes to be right and just as he defends the honor of his best friend Sam (Sameed) Medina, a Muslim American.
The messages of faith, courage, hope and loyalty emerge as Jake confronts his parents, his classmates and his community in the name of Sam.
A wonderfully honest story that everyone can relate to!
13 year old Jake Green's struggle to understand his world in the aftermath of the September 11th tragedies is deeply moving. Jake is forced to question and rethink everything he believes to be right and just as he defends the honor of his best friend Sam (Sameed) Medina, a Muslim American.
The messages of faith, courage, hope and loyalty emerge as Jake confronts his parents, his classmates and his community in the name of Sam.
A wonderfully honest story that everyone can relate to!
September 22, 2014
A moving, complicated story that brought tears to my eyes as it depicted the events of 9/11 through the eyes of a middle school boy. The characters are believable and complicated and very human, and I was particularly struck by how the adults in the story weren't always able to cope, and how things were left unresolved--a powerful and true-to-life take on childhood and the loss of innocence. A quick, page-turning read with heartwarming characters and plot twists that kept me guessing!
August 24, 2014
This book is a "must read" ! Once I started I couldn't put it down. Has some great messages both for kids and for parents. Set around the events of 9/11 in a small South Florida town, it stresses the importance of acceptance of others, which is as important today as it was in 2001. I shed more than "Just a Drop of Water" while reading this!
August 24, 2014
Very factual account of the time just before and after September 11. As an educator, I hope all middle schools and upper elementary schools will use this in the classroom to help kids understand a time period that changed modern America.
July 12, 2016
Wonderful book! I could see using this ad a read-aloud whole class study or an advanced reading group (5th grade). Much discussion of character development and motived.
I believe the author brought an incredible time tolife, through the eyes of a young teen.
I believe the author brought an incredible time tolife, through the eyes of a young teen.
September 2, 2016
4.25 stars. This book is about so much more than 9/11, but the author covers that subject in a truly excellent way. Can't wait to share with my 8th graders!
July 7, 2023
While I’m ashamed it took me this long to read this book, I’m glad I waited until I could give it my full attention.
This book examines the aftermath of 9/11 from the perspective of a middle school boy, at that beautiful and terrible precipice of becoming an adult. I’ve always thought one of the worst parts of growing up (AND one of the best parts) is realizing your parents are human…and fallible.
Jake struggles through watching his mother initially succumb to fear, and then work towards overcoming it. He tries to succeed where many adults can’t: how do you fight fear without violence?
As a wordworshipper I also love the title, (which comes from the song ‘Dust in the Wind). I sometimes teach this song when teaching Hamlet. Jake’s grandmother provides a totally different perspective on the meaning of the lyrics. It’s a beautiful reminder that perspective is everything. It’s the beauty of literature: if we could only learn to see from another’s eyes, we could all know so much more.
This book is lovely, realistic and brave.
This book examines the aftermath of 9/11 from the perspective of a middle school boy, at that beautiful and terrible precipice of becoming an adult. I’ve always thought one of the worst parts of growing up (AND one of the best parts) is realizing your parents are human…and fallible.
Jake struggles through watching his mother initially succumb to fear, and then work towards overcoming it. He tries to succeed where many adults can’t: how do you fight fear without violence?
As a wordworshipper I also love the title, (which comes from the song ‘Dust in the Wind). I sometimes teach this song when teaching Hamlet. Jake’s grandmother provides a totally different perspective on the meaning of the lyrics. It’s a beautiful reminder that perspective is everything. It’s the beauty of literature: if we could only learn to see from another’s eyes, we could all know so much more.
This book is lovely, realistic and brave.
September 29, 2022
This is an amazing book that held my attention from beginning to end. The story is authentic and real while capturing the enormity of the emotions that were stirred on 9/11.
This book while centring on the events of 9/11, explores so much more. Courage, friendship, love, faith, and hope are all themes in this well written novel. I can’t wait to share this book.
This book while centring on the events of 9/11, explores so much more. Courage, friendship, love, faith, and hope are all themes in this well written novel. I can’t wait to share this book.
October 19, 2018
Amazing
Just a Drop of Water is an amazing book!! I definitely recommend it to anyone. This book gives a nice message!
Just a Drop of Water is an amazing book!! I definitely recommend it to anyone. This book gives a nice message!
October 15, 2021
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March 1, 2015
Jake is a typical 8th grader in a small Florida town in September of 2001. His best friend is Sam Madina, and their families spend lots of time together. Jake and Sam are both runners, hoping to be team captains for the year. Everything changes, though, on 9/11. Suddenly the school bullies are attacking Sam, and Jake keeps getting into fights defending him. Even his parents betray him, his mother fearful of the Madinas, and his father not standing up to the bully’s father. Sam is pulling away, too, getting more interested in going to his mosque, especially when the FBI take his father away because his father once met one of the hijackers at the bank where he works. Jake doesn’t understand why no one sees what’s obvious to him, even as everyone tries to help him see that there are more layers and complications to life than he’s yet able to comprehend.
This was a difficult book to read, being so full of Jake’s rage and all the difficult things happening to Sam and his family. It’s accurate, though, showing a whole range of reactions to 9/11, and helping kids of 2014 understand what it was like back then, before they were born, and why it was such a significant event. Jake is a very typical, brash, black-and-white thinking boy, resolute and courageous to the point of being bull-headed. To him, everything seems obvious, and kids reading it might agree with him. As he reluctantly comes to see that the world doesn’t revolve around him and that life is more complex than he suspected-—including within his own family, and within Sam’s-—we can only hope that kids reading it will see some of what Jake does.
This was a difficult book to read, being so full of Jake’s rage and all the difficult things happening to Sam and his family. It’s accurate, though, showing a whole range of reactions to 9/11, and helping kids of 2014 understand what it was like back then, before they were born, and why it was such a significant event. Jake is a very typical, brash, black-and-white thinking boy, resolute and courageous to the point of being bull-headed. To him, everything seems obvious, and kids reading it might agree with him. As he reluctantly comes to see that the world doesn’t revolve around him and that life is more complex than he suspected-—including within his own family, and within Sam’s-—we can only hope that kids reading it will see some of what Jake does.
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