The Orphan Band of Springdale

Gr 4–6—Gusta's troubles begin in 1941 when her father—an infamous labor union organizer—disappears as he's placing her on a bus from New York City to Maine. Eleven-year-old Gusta arrives at her destination, an orphan house run by her Grandma Hoops, carrying little more than her precious French horn. Multiple intriguing plot lines emerge: anti-German American sentiment, labor union disputes, Gusta's previously undiagnosed vision problems, her surprising musical talent, a persistent search for an ancestor's last remaining magic wish, an elderly Jewish man's homing pigeons, and family secrets. Alliances and friendships, bravery and perseverance, strong-willed characters, and a satisfying conclusion characterize this distinctive novel. Kate Rudd exudes perfect empathy for the protagonist here. Her pace and voice moderation allow listeners to easily distinguish among the cast of characters.