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by Ree Rozier (Author), Jim Vernon (Illustrator), Katlyn Greenwood (Editor)
Jake, a 10-year-old in foster care, thinks he finally has it made. When his new foster family gives him a room of his own, a hand-me-down bike, and a place in the family dairy business, ten-year old Jake "McMagic" dares to hope he's found a home.
His new big sister is a problem, of course. Even though she makes the best (and only) homemade ice cream he's ever had, she manages to torment him a dozen irritating ways. But as a fan of Dr. Seuss, Jake has survived tough times by making up fantastical stories, and has now found an adoring listener in little Libby, and life is good.
Jake creates a story within a story of humming fish who are also searching for a safe and happy home. Jake and his listeners try to work through the problems that traveling humming fish may encounter, introducing us to Henry the Heron, the perils of a picnic basket, and other hilarious obstacles. Jake's story, and that of the humming fish he invents, run parallel, highlighting with love, humor, and compassion, the need for a safe space within which to grow.
But Jake is jerked back to reality when he overhears that his new big brother is leaving and his long-lost baby brother is in some hospital somewhere-for who-knows-what awful calamity! He suddenly remembers: you can't trust grownups and you've got to watch out for your brother! Exposed now to both the joys and heartaches of family, and determined to find and rescue his little brother, Jake must make a choice of whether to accept help from others or again strike out on his own.
Like a Brother is the second of two stand-alone MG books that share characters, high adventure, and a farm setting under Montana's snow-clad Crazy Mountains. Both books explore kids' frustrations of being powerless in a sometimes chaotic adult world-especially tough when younger siblings are at risk-and the healing power of love.
Fast-paced and rich with humor and family values, Jake's story is imaginative, sweet, and boldly honest. It will especially appeal to those who love a story about brothers and sisters, and to those who've struggled to feel accepted.
