Bread and Roses, Too by Katherine Paterson is the story of two children who were involved either directly or indirectly in the worker strikes at mills in Lawrence, MA of Jan 1912. The two meet throughout the book, but their paths really converge when they (as many other children of immigrant workers) are sent to Barre, VT to be cared for during the strike. As with every book by Katherine Paterson that I have ever read, the characters come to life and I felt as though I was feeling their struggles and suffering right with them. The injustice of big corporations and the strength, love, and loyalty of family and friends is strongly felt. The writing magnificent.

Caleb’s Story by Sarah Maclachlan. I read this out loud to my 8 and 10 year old boys, who are able and love to read. What a poignant family reunion story  and the power of reading and writing.