(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Sarah Hokanson. Jubilee lives with her aunt Cora on an island off the Maine coast, having been abandoned by her mother. For the first time, Jubilee will be in a mainstream fifth-grade class without the support of a special-needs teacher for her selective mutism. Giff examines the bonds that people create, both with other people and with animals, and she gets the island-life details right.

Reviewer: Robin L. Smith | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2016

(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Sarah Hokanson. Twelve-year-old Homer decides to unravel the mystery of why his mother won't talk about his long-dead father--but first he helps his new friend shadow a suspicious-looking guy disguised as an old man. The mysteries will draw readers, but it's Homer's transformation from quiet, obedient child to outspoken, daring young man that offers the most intrigue in this affecting novel.

Reviewer: Jennifer M. Brabander | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2001