ONCE IN A BLUE MOON by Sharon G. Flake

 

The wonderful Sharon G. Flake does it again! In her unique verse she tells the story of twins living in the South. James Henry experienced a tragedy while visiting a local lighthouse. It was a favorite place he loved to visit with his mother, but this time Dog runs off and his mother ends up in the ocean and almost drowns. Now she is in the North recovering from the accident.

James Henry and his twin sister Hattie are staying with their Granny. James Henry hasn't left the house since the accident. Hattie is hoping the magic of the upcoming blue moon will help give her brother the courage to leave the house and perhaps even visit the lighthouse again.

In addition to regaining his courage, James Henry is dealing with some local bullies, the guilt he feels about his mother's accident, and regaining the trust of his uncle and Granny. Hattie helps as much as she can, but it is really up to James Henry to face his fears.

The story of the accident is revealed slowly as readers meet the twins and learn about their lives and family. Tension builds as James Henry steps out of his comfort zone to start living bravely again.