Darcy Pattison's Random Acts of Publicity
ONE
FOR THE MURPHYS by Lynda Mullaly Hunt (Nancy Paulsen Books, 2012).
One For The Murphys is Lynda Mullaly
Hunt’s first novel. The main character, Carley, is twelve years old and finds
herself unexpectedly placed with a foster family. All of the story’s characters
are carefully revealed through strong, honest dialogue. Carley meets and
resolves challenges in her own unique way. She touches the reader and leaves
one wondering and feeling her loss.
A
BALL FOR DAISY by Chris Raschka (Schwartz & Wade Books, 2011).
This
Caldecott Medal Award winner is the work of illustrator/author Chris Raschka,
who has published over 40 books. I’m mentioning the book in this list because of
the universal theme of loss is touching and the feeling comes only through
story and wordless illustrations. The illustrations must be seen and studied.
One illustration to look for is where the reader finally sees Daisy’s young companion.
Oh, and Daisy is a dog.
MISSING
MAY by Cynthia Rylant (Orchard Books, 1992).
Missing May won the 1993 Newbery
Award. Cynthia Rylant is a well-known author, so why is this book on the list? It
is a story that sticks with you, hauntingly simple and deeply touching. Isn’t
that how all great books leave you? The story is about loss. It is so worth
rereading at whatever age you are.
ILLEGAL
by Bettina Restrepo (Katherine Tegan Books, 2011).
Illegal is a debut novel
written by Bettina Restrepo. Teenage Nora and her mother follow Nora’s father
from Mexico to Texas after they don’t hear from him. The trip as illegals to Houston and
their life there are difficult. Nora desperately feels the loss of her home and
family. She grabbles with growing up. Many vibrant characters shape her journey. The reader must consider how Nora's journey will affect her.
