Saturday, May 29, 2010

The Water Seeker by Kimberly Willis Holt


"Jake Kincaid was known as the dowser."

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Summary: Traces the hard life, filled with losses, adversity, and adventure, of Amos, son of a trapper and dowser, from 1833 when his mother dies giving birth to him until 1859, when he himself has grown up and has a son of his own.

Henry Holt and Company; 309 pages

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

This is on the top of my list as a stand-out read and Newbery worthy.

Pat from Ohio

kim said...

I just finished this book last night and I loved it. It dealt with some big issues in an appropriate way. I thought the way in which Holt depicts the westward expansion and the settlers' relationship with the Native Americans was excellent. I think this is a Newbery worthy title.

Anonymous said...

I think this is a Newbery worthy book, though I don't know if that means anything anymore since the committee has gotten so off track with most of their recent choices.
Though I liked this book, the fact is I can't get any kid to read it and the desire for kids to actually read the book should be put into consideration. Is it a book that kids will read? The committee needs to not only think of the merits of the book, but the appeal it has on kids.

Anonymous said...

I really liked this book. Definitely for older kids or teens, but nevertheless, it was one of my favorites. A great coming of age historical fiction story.

The Newbery Committee must look for the most distinguished book, not the most popular. Taken from the ALA website: The committee should keep in mind that the award is for literary quality and quality presentation for children. The award is not for didactic content or popularity.