The Multiplying Mysteries of Mount Ten by Krista Van Dolzer

It tackles themes of friendship and empathy between people with significant cultural, racial, or religious differences. The story explores the little-understood experience of African American soldiers returning from the battlefields of World War II to hometowns that did not always appreciate their service. A stranger named Meriwether Hunter saves him from an oncoming car, and the two become unlikely but close friends. (Ages 9-13) The Unsung Hero of Birdsong, USA Brenda WoodsĪ near miss on his bicycle changes 12-year-old Gabriel’s whole summer. During her pursuit of the whale, Iris discovers that a healthy life thrives on relationships-with family members, friends, and, sometimes, even with whales. When she learns about a hybrid whale named Blue 55 whose song is too high for the other whales to hear, she is determined to make a song for him and tell him he is not alone. Iris’ deafness causes her to feel isolated from her schoolmates and even some of her family members who don’t know how to sign. This whimsical and bittersweet book is about loneliness and the importance of connection. The story explores forgiveness and understanding between generations, the importance of family, and the cultural differences between the East and West Coasts. While there, Amara learns about the history of her family and African Americans in the United States and discovers how our family history and culture affect us in ways we don’t always recognize. She is excited when she gets the chance to go with her father to visit New York City, where he grew up and his parents and siblings still live. Some Places More Than Others Renée WatsonĪmara grew up in Portland, Ore., far away from the extended family she wished she could meet.

The Multiplying Mysteries of Mount Ten by Krista Van Dolzer