Echo

Book talk: The harmonica is a humble instrument, but in the right hands its music can uplift the spirit and connect people. This harmonica more so than most. It all starts with Otto who gets lost in the woods and meets three magical sisters who prophesy "Your fate is not yet sealed. Even in the darkest night, a star will shine, a bell will chime, a path will be revealed." This magical instrument travels through the ages connecting people suffering through their darkest moments: a disfigured boy in Nazi Germany, an orphan during the Great Depression, and a farmer's child during World War II. Open your heart to their stories, and the harmonica will connect you to them too.

Rave: This is a well-written novel that reveals the patterns of history and breaks your heart only to stitch it back together and leave it warm and hopeful. It tackles some big issues, at a level that is accessible and engaging for middle schoolers. It would make a great classroom read.

Every book its reader: I'd give this to historical fiction fans 5th and up.

Topics and Trends: WWII, the Great Depression, musical instruments, harmonicas, diversity

Extras:

There's lots of extras on the author's site: http://www.pammunozryan.com/echo/

Source: school library

Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan: buy it or check it out today!