Song of the Sparrow by Lisa Ann Sandell

Lisa Ann Sandell
Song of the Sparrow

When Elaine’s mother is murdered before her and her brother’s eyes her father takes his three children to join the camp of Arthur. Elaine grows up running wild like a boy and creates a bond with the soldiers of Arthur as she matures among them. To the men Elaine is a sister; she mends clothes and bodies and is whom they go to for an ear of compassion; they are her brothers. But as the old legend tells, Elaine falls in love with the handsome Lancelot. He was her friend when her world flipped, but when he fetches the lovely Gywnivere to make Arthur’s wife his heart is captured. Heartbroken, Elain finds comfort in Tristan, who attempts to make her smile. When the men must go to fight the Saxons, Elaine knows she must sneak away from the camp and follow them. What finds her is a weaving of discovery when she is capture by the Saxon men. Elaine attains a friend in her enemy, she discovers her own strength, and she finally understands what true love really is.

Pgs 416
Historical novel, Adventure novel
Young Adult
Interest Level 12+

-Sandel uses beautiful lyrical language that is easy to understand while having it in the same format as the old classics like The Odyssey.
-Good for young girls
-Great story
-Has some romance

Three Cups of Tea by Mortenson & Relin

Mortenson & Relin
Adapted by Sarah Thomson
Three Cups of Tea
2009

In 1993, Greg Mortenson attempted to climb K2, the world’s second highest mountain in honor of his sister who passed away. He becomes lost and ill and finds aid in a Pakistan village called Korphe. He promised to repay his generous host by building a school. This was the beginnings of the Central Asia Institute (CAI) which now provides schools for children in Pakistan and Afghanistan. This version is retold for Young Adults; the story relates the hard work of one American determined to make lives better through schooling. It follows the interesting adventures he goes through for the sake of a people who need his help.

Pgs 240
Nonfiction, Memoir
Young Adult
Interest Level: Young Adult

-A quick and interesting read.
-Inspiring.
-Helps the reader understand the ways of the Muslim (they’re not terrorist).
-Gives insights to the lives of Muslims and their customs.
-A great read.