Autumn Journey — Priscilla Cummings

When Will Newcomb's father loses his job at the Port of Baltimore things at home start falling apart. The family moves to Grampa's farm in Pennsylvania for a new beginning, but his father's depression is taking a toll on the family--especially Will. When Grampa suggests a hunting trip early one morning, Will is eager to go along, especially since he believes it might help him win back his father's attention. Only later, while hiding beneath the bushes and waiting for the birds to see the decoys, does Will realize how torn inside he is about actually killing a beautiful Canada goose. This is one hunting trip that does not end the way anyone hopes or expects. Autumn Journey is the story of several journeys, not just that of a Canada goose or a young boy. It is the tale of love keeping a struggling family together in the face of hard times. Middle grades-ages 10-13.