Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus

I immensely enjoyed this touching novel written by Dusti Bowling, set in the Arizona desert at a cowboy theme park.  Aven has just moved there, away from all the friends that have accepted her as she is.  Now she has to start all over.  That is not easy when you were born with no arms.  She befriends two boys, both of whom struggle themselves with fitting in.  They discover a mystery that will change Aven's life.  Although stories revolving around children with disabilities are quite plentiful right now,  this story was fresh and unique.  Its messages of tolerance and acceptance are ones that young readers can not hear enough.  Everyone has a "light to shine".  Booklist sums it up beautifully:  "...A tale that is not about having differences, but accepting them in oneself and others." (FIC BOW)

Wishtree

Katherine Applegate, author of The One and Only Ivan and Crenshaw, has written a beautiful, but short, novel about friendship.  A tree named Red is the main character who narrates the story of Samar, a Muslim girl who moves into Red's neighborhood.  Her only wish is for a friend.  Red wants to help, but he may be cut down.  Red makes a decision to help her before it is too late.  The book has a beautiful message of acceptance and standing up to hate and intolerance. (FIC APP)