The Tear Collector

Gr 4-7–Malka and her younger brother Ezra survived the Flood and now live in isolation on the Island, with few survivors. Under the watchful and sinister eye of the Island’s leader, they barely get by. When Ezra gets sick, Malka is desperate to find a cure, no matter the cost. Then, her life takes an unexpected turn when Olivia’s plane crashes on the Island. Olivia’s very presence as well as her knowledge of the outside world will have Malka questioning everything she thought she knew. This dystopian novel is filled with lyrical prose and adventure. Romero paints a vivid world that has been affected by climate change. Readers will be rooting for Malka to save Ezra and the other Islanders in this dark and powerful middle grade fairy tale that is infused with hope and fantasy. Readers will also find comfort in following along with Malka and Ezra’s “recipes” for life.