Voices at Whisper Bend (American Girl History Mysteries) - Hardcover

Ayres, Katherine

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1562478176 ISBN 13: 9781562478179

Publisher: Amer Girl Pub, 2000

Synopsis

In their Pennsylvania town in 1942 twelve-year-old Charlotte and her classmates collect scrap metal for the war effort only to have it disappear from the school basement

About this title

From School Library Journal

Gr 3-6-Through clarity and a strong sense of place, Ayres has created a well-structured, entertaining story that focuses on a turbulent time in American history. Living in Pennsylvania in 1942, Charlotte wants to do her part for the war effort after her brother Jim enlists in the Navy and her mother goes to work in the local war plant. Her father, the operator of a tugboat, guides boats towing war supplies up the Monongahela River. Charlotte comes up with the idea of enlisting her classmates to help her collect scrap metal. Her enthusiasm and joy regarding the success of her project are short-lived when the metal is stolen from the school's basement. Her determination to find the thief leads her out on the rain-swollen river at night, where she confronts not only the culprit, but also a fear that has haunted her. Social issues are handled with sensitivity and thoughtfulness, particularly the episodes involving Charlotte's friend who endures endless taunts because she is of German descent. Another poignant scene clearly reflects the emotions felt by everyone who had family members stationed in Europe and the Pacific. Characters develop as the story moves at an even pace. Charlotte feels an inner strength and sense of accomplishment when she solves the mystery. An appended historical note offers more information about World War II.-Janet Gillen, Great Neck Public Library, NY

Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Amer Girl Pub
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 1562478176
• ISBN 13: 9781562478179
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 162