Brenda A. Ferber

Julia's Kitchen is the name of Cara's mom's catering business. Cara, 11 years-old, loves to bake and she especially likes to help her mom in the kitchen. But one day there is a terrible tragedy and Cara loses her mom and sister in a fire. Not knowing how to cope or how to move forward this is a story about loss, doubt as well as acceptance. Cara struggles to move on and questions God's role in her life along with her faith in religion. Her father has completely withdrawn and Cara wishes she had been in the fire too. But then Cara decides to continue her mom's business and realizes the best way to cope is to continue moving forward. A great story that might be too intense for young readers, but definitely a must read for anyone that has to deal with losing someone special.… (altro)

Jemma hartman is headed to camp. She has waited all year to hook up with her best friend Tammy who had moved away. Jemma and her family wait at the teh bus for Tammy only to see Tammy arrive with her cousin Brooke in tow. Brook's parents are divorcing and she is staying with Tammy. This is the beginning of a summer Jemma will never forget. She spends four wonderful weeks at Camp Star Lake, having fun learning to ski, sail and learn what true friendship is all about. I really liked this book. It was so true to life. The characters were very believable. It showed the true joy and pain of friendship. This is another book for my shelves. I know my sixth graders can relate to it.… (altro)