Written in language authentic for the time and a voice made pitch perfect by the author’s attention to how struggling mill town inhabitants would express themselves, this story pushes each chapter to a cliff hanger and dares the reader to put it down.
FINDER’S MAGIC by C. M. Fleming (Onstage Publishing) 2008
An 11 year old boy witnesses the murder of his best friend and he’s soon on the run to save his own life. Set in an Atlanta mill town in 1911, the story of Hank McCord’s life is already harsh. He thinks it’s his fault his Papa is dead and it’s now his job to take care of Mama–tough to do when you can’t go home. He needs an ally and one arrives in the nick of time. Of course! Meet Calvin who is no stranger to hiding out and escaping bullies. Calvin takes Hank to the Finder who can work all kinds of magic. The murderers hunt for Hank and the KKK goes looking for Calvin. It’s only two weeks until Hank turns 12. Will he make it?
The finder’s magic may seem elusive, but it’s a wisdom Hank and Calvin discover on their own. Readers will, too.
Quote from book: page 20: Calvin said, “Don’t look down.”
Too late! My eyes focused on the muddy river a long way below. Little dots of light winked here and there on the surface while the dark water whispered threats as it tumbled downstream.
Would you keep reading?
This is a good choice for a reluctant reader boy–but don’t be surprised if his sister reads it, too.
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Hillview School Library
This is a great adventure story for boys, and I loved all the Atlanta history!
ReplyDeleteJoan,
ReplyDeleteThank you for beautifully capturing this wonderful book. Connie's characters may belong to a long past time, but they reach out and pull us into their lives, their problems, their run for their lives, and the friendship that grows slowly into something special.
I have the privilege of owning this book. Any time I need an exciting ride with thoroughly engaging characters ...