Author: E.L. Konigsburg
Publisher: New: York Atheneum Books for Young Readers 2000
ISBN-978-0689836015
pages: 261
Classification: Young Adult Fiction
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Topics: abuse, trauma, family, divorce, mystery
Media Type: Book
Interest Level:
Grade level: 5-Adult
Reader's annotation: When Branwell’s baby sister has trouble breathing due to mistreatment he loses his ability to speak. While being held in a juvenile detention center, his best friend has to figure out a way to communicate and find out what really happened.
Summary: The story opens with the 911 call when Branwell’s baby sister clearly is seriously injured and he can’t speak. We know pretty quickly that Branwell is being wrongly accused and suspect that something he knew or saw is what is keeping him mute. It is now up to his best friend Connor to find out through a bit of detective work what actually happened that is keeping his friend from speaking. This involves renewing his relationship with his older half sister and throughout the process Connor too benefits from the experience. This is a story about families and relationships as well as loyalties and growing up.
Evaluation: The way the story slowly unfolds and the sense of mystery that the author captures in her writing style keeps the reader’s attention right to the end. Issues of divorce and remarriage, sexual attraction and shame will attract the teen reader.
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