"SURVIVAL STRATEGIES OF THE ALMOST BRAVE," by Jen White, Farrar, Straus Giroux Books for Young Readers, $16.99, 320 pages (ages 8-12) (f)
Survival Strategy No. 50: If you can, be brave
As if the death of their mother didn’t leave 12-year-old Liberty and her 8-year-old sister, Billie, feeling lost enough, their father — returned to claim them after leaving their mother — abandoned them at a gas station in the middle of nowhere at the beginning of "Survival Strategies of the Almost Brave."
Simply asking for help is out of the question. Liberty isn’t interested in getting adults or police involved during their five-day ordeal, because they’ll surely separate her and her sister due to their situation. And despite their father’s issues with anger and neglect before he abandoned them, Liberty and Billie — so desperate to be a family — aren’t ready to give up on him yet.
Using carefully laid plans, working with her best available options, breaking some rules, and showing a whole lot of bravery, Liberty and her sister embark on a journey back to California from the Grand Canyon area. The journey showcases not only the bravery and cleverness of Liberty and her sister but also the ability of those they meet along the way to be kind or cruel.
Survival Strategy No. 43: Trust your heart
California author Jen White writes a heartbreaking story of two lost girls — but mostly of one girl who will do anything to protect her sister. Liberty’s courage, strength and love infuse this tale with heart, and readers are sure to close its pages feeling determined to be better, braver and kinder.
White’s characters are believable and the storyline full of humor, tension and action. White didn’t take any easy ways out and tied up all the loose ends hopefully and realistically in ways that fit with the storyline. Readers of all ages can enjoy and learn something from this story, making it worth reading and adding to your shelves.
"Survival Strategies of the Almost Brave," which was released on June 9, does not contain any violence, swearing or sexual content.
If you go ...
What: Jen White book signing with Valynne Maetani, author of "Ink and Ashes"
When: Tuesday, July 7, 6 p.m.
Where: Barnes & Noble, University Crossings Plaza, 330 E. 1300 South, Orem
Web: barnesandnoble.com, jenwhitebooks.com
Also ...
What: Jen White book signing
When: Thursday, July 16, 7 p.m.
Where: The King's English Bookshop, 1511 S. 1500 East, Salt Lake City
Web: kingsenglish.com
Note: Places in the signing line are reserved for those who purchase a copy of the featured book from The King's English.
Hikari Loftus is a graduate of the University of Utah. She blogs at FoldedPagesDistillery.blogspot.com.