Synopsis
This is a beautiful and compelling story about two strong girls facing tribulations with patience and creativity. When a ferocious storm hits their ship, young Mary and Jean become stranded on a deserted island. They’re not the only survivors; with them are four babies. Immediately the sisters set out to make the island a home for themselves and the little ones. A classic tale of courage and dedication from a Newbery Medalist author.- ★★★★★
- ★★★★☆
- ★★★★☆
- ★★★☆☆
- Discuss the importance of taking responsibility for those in need before being asked.
- Discuss how the girls embody resilience when facing extreme hardship.Think about hardships you have faced? What was your attitude during that time?
- The climax of the book builds up to a glorious celebration of Christmas Day. Christmas has become a global commercial holiday that is often enticing to young children. Discuss why we refrain from participating in non-Muslim religious holidays, despite widespread secularization.
Mindful Muslim Review
This book earns our Gold Star because it combines the best elements of storytelling: a gripping tale written in fanciful language, protagonists who embody virtue and patience despite hardship, and the beauty of child-like innocence. Two sisters, 10 and 12 years old, show resilience, courage and grit in the face of daunting challenges while also displaying compassion and nurturing love to the young ones in their charge. Their wisdom and motherly instincts help them survive on the island, but it’s one sister’s innocent, seemingly naive, act of respect to her elder that causes them to be rescued. The reverence for faith throughout the story is felt through their consistent practice of Christianity. The Divine is brought to the forefront of this story, a far cry from the themes of most modern children’s books, in which God is never mentioned.
