- sixth book in a historical fiction series with a time traveling dog
- based in 1906 San Francisco, focused on Chinese people affected by the earthquake
- convo: difficulties of refugee life, a girl has painful memories of her parents selling her to a man who beat her, chaos and loss caused by the earthquake
Type: chapter book
Ages: 8-12
Author: Kate Messner
Illustrator: Kelley McMorris
Another page turner! Each scene is so vibrantly described that readers can easily picture it. We mostly follow a girl named Lily. She and Ranger make their way through the rubble, helping friends in need as they journey away from the area. She sees many injuries as well as avoids near death a few times.
This book uniquely shines a light on what life was like for Chinese refugees. Their living conditions, the discriminatory laws, and the segregation they endured all comes into the story. When Lily finally reaches the location where people are gathering in safety, she sees that the Chinese have even been separated there. Her thought: “What kind of city took the time to sort and separate people when everyone is hurting so much?” Good question, Lily.
Overall, this is probably my favorite in the series so far. Messner did a great job for the intended age group. The only thing I wish she would have added is for Lo Mo, the dear woman who had saved Lily from the abusive man (along with other young Chinese girls), to have learned that Lily didn’t die, which she would have had to assume. Lily’s destiny takes her elsewhere before she could ever find Lo Mo again. But that’s a minor complaint! Excellent book.
Review for Book 1: Rescue on the Oregon Trail
Review for Book 2: Danger in Ancient Rome
Review for Book 3: Long Road to Freedom
Review for Book 4: Race to the South Pole
Review for Book 5: Journey Through Ash and Smoke