The Truth About Sparrows — Marian Hale

A stunning debut novel about a young girl's struggle to find home and friendship during the Great Depression.

"The Wynns are an unforgettable family. The details of their struggle to survive the Great Depression will linger long after the last page has been read." -Ann M. Martin, winner of the Newbery Honor for A Corner of the Universe

Sadie Wynn doesn't want a new life; her old one suits her just fine. But times are hard in drought-plagued Missouri, and Daddy thinks they'll be better off in Texas. Sadie hates this strange new place, where even children must work at the cannery to help make ends meet and people are rude to her disabled father.

Yet when trouble comes, it is the kindness of these new neighbors that helps the family make it through. And no one helps more than Dollie, a red-headed chatterbox of a girl who just might become a good friend -- if Sadie gives her half a chance.

Set against the backdrop of the Dust Bowl migration, this moving story of a girl discovering the true meaning of home is a 2005 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year. Perfect for fans of historical coming-of-age novels, The Truth About Sparrows explores themes of family, friendship, and finding one's place in a new environment.