Cabin 102 - Softcover

SHERRY GARLAND is the author of many award-winning novels and picture books, including Indio, The Last Rainmaker. She lives in central Texas. www.sherrygarland.com

Grade 5-7?Dusty almost drowned when he was 5; now 11, he lies to avoid swimming?a sport his father, new stepmother, and stepsisters adore. When his stepmother wins a Caribbean cruise for the whole family, Dusty is terrified...until he meets someone with a dilemma more serious than his?a Taino girl who lived and died in the 1500s. Dealing with phobias, family problems, ghosts, and genocide may seem overwhelming, but Garland creates a resilient central character who overcomes adversity not through heroics, but by willingly responding to each situation to the best of his ability. In so doing he overcomes his fear of water, bonds with his father and new family, saves the ship, and helps a spirit come to rest. Information about the Tainos is woven into the story as Dusty tries to find out more about his friend, not realizing until the end that she is a ghost. Several of the supporting characters are well developed and move the plot along nicely. This compelling and at times powerful novel could engage reluctant readers; it delivers the "good Taino/bad Spaniard" message with subtlety, and is a good companion to Michael Dorris's Morning Girl (Hyperion, 1992). A fine choice for those who enjoy reading about teen angst and ghosts.?Jody McCoy, Casady School, Oklahoma City
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