(3) YA In this fourth story about the Honeycutts (Blue; Comfort; Aim), fourteen-year-old twins Ellie and Ida grow apart as the family struggles to cope with Daddy's post-war trauma. Alternating narratives (with the occasional free-verse entry) relate each sister's unique interests and progression on her own life path. The 1952 setting, with social tensions including the Korean War and the polio epidemic, makes a compelling backdrop to this coming-of-age story. Reading list, websites.

Reviewer: Rita Soltan

(3) 4-6 In this prequel to Blue and Comfort, Hostetter focuses on another resident of rural Hickory, North Carolina: fourteen-year-old Junior Bledsoe. It's 1941, and World War II is looming, but Junior's focus is mainly on his father's death, family history, his own identity, and unexpected new friendships. Hostetter continues to depict compelling life lessons through a historical lens without being didactic. Reading list, websites. Bib.

Reviewer: Lauren Causey

(3) 4-6 This compelling sequel to Blue finds Ann Fay's father home from WWII a changed man. Meanwhile, a rehabilitating stay at Warm Springs polio treatment center helps Ann Fay come to terms with her own healing, both physical and emotional. Ann Fay's struggles, courage, and frustrations are vividly explored. An author's note provides more background. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib.

Reviewer: Juliet S. King

(3) YA Ripped from his family and abandoned at the lawless leper colony on Hawaii's Moloka'i Island in the 1870s, teenager Pia struggles to survive. He gradually shifts from anger to compassion through the example of a Catholic priest. The book's unique setting along with its vivid descriptions of Hawaiian history and culture are memorable. An author's note gives more background. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos.

Reviewer: Megan Lynn Isaac