cover Title: The Ocean Within
Author: V. M. Caldwell

type of book: YA Fiction
call number: YA/FIC

This book is strong in character, story and setting.

Summary:
Elizabeth, an orphan who has been passed around from one foster home to another her whole life, is very withdrawn and has a bad attitude. The Sheridian family are the next foster family to get her. They have three kids and the family has many cousins, all run by the matriarch (Grandma) who lives by the sea.

Every summer the whole clan gets together to celebrate life and family. Elizabeth doesn't get along with the other kids because of her bad attitude. She has decided since she'll never be adopted that it's not worth trying to be friends with people she will soon have to leave behind. Grandma Sheridian believes in sharing everything, including time and thoughts, and she doesn't appreciate Elizabeth's rude behavior. She and Grandma have some tense situations. Can Elizabeth and Grandma make things work out for the family? Can Grandma help Elizabeth share her dream and make it come true?

I would recommend this book!

Why?
This book will appeal to middle school readers who enjoy a story about family and about belonging. It also deals with overcoming fear of something.

Other suggested reading:
  • Tides, also by V.M. Caldwell, is the sequel to The Ocean Within.
  • Look for this and other titles in our !

    Employee Initials: KS Review Date: April 2003

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