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SJPL Picks: Historical Fiction (~Grades 3-7)

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SJPL_KidsPicks

San José Public Library

Staff-created list

History is the story of humankind- at least, part of the story. You may have heard "History is written by the victors" before, and if that's true, well, there are a lot of other stories to tell that have been lost to the sands of time. While ultimately these novels are works of fiction, they draw heavily from what we do know about certain time periods to guess at some of these lost tales. Here, there are stories from not only the "victors", but also from the "vanquished", as well as those on the sidelines. This list contains chapter books for kids in approximately grades 3-7. Historical period and/or region, as well as grade level/interest approximation and/or Accelerated Reader level, listed in notes as available. Selected and curated by SJPL Librarians.

By:

SJPL_KidsPicks

San José Public Library

1-25 of 40 items

1-25 of 40 items

Safiyyah's War

Safiyyah's War

by Khan, Hiba Noor

Book - 2024

Paris, WWII. Grades 3-6. "Inspired by the true story of how the Grand Mosque of Paris saved the lives of hundreds of Jews during World War II, Hiba N...Show more Paris, WWII. Grades 3-6. "Inspired by the true story of how the Grand Mosque of Paris saved the lives of hundreds of Jews during World War II, Hiba Noor Khan weaves a breathtaking tale of suspense, compassion, and courage, starring an extraordinary young heroine readers will never forget. Safiyyah loathes the brutal Nazi occupation of Paris, even though her Muslim identity keeps her safe—or, at least, safer than her Jewish neighbors. Violence lurks in the streets, her best friend has fled, and even her place of refuge—the library—has turned shadowy and confusing, as the invaders fear the power of books. Safiyyah longs to fight back and hates feeling powerless to help her Jewish friends. Worse yet, her father—who taught her to always do the right thing—is acting strangely and doing nothing to help them either. Or is he? Unravelling the mystery of her father’s odd behavior draws Safiyyah deep in the heart of the perilous underground resistance to the Nazis, where her bravery is put to the ultimate test… " Show less

Paris, WWII. Grades 3-6. "Inspired by the true story of how the Grand Mosque of Paris saved the lives of hundreds of Jews during World War II, Hiba N...Show more Paris, WWII. Grades 3-6. "Inspired by the true story of how the Grand Mosque of Paris saved the lives of hundreds of Jews during World War II, Hiba Noor Khan weaves a breathtaking tale of suspense, compassion, and courage, starring an extraordinary young heroine readers will never forget. Safiyyah loathes the brutal Nazi occupation of Paris, even though her Muslim identity keeps her safe—or, at least, safer than her Jewish neighbors. Violence lurks in the streets, her best friend has fled, and even her place of refuge—the library—has turned shadowy and confusing, as the invaders fear the power of books. Safiyyah longs to fight back and hates feeling powerless to help her Jewish friends. Worse yet, her father—who taught her to always do the right thing—is acting strangely and doing nothing to help them either. Or is he? Unravelling the mystery of her father’s odd behavior draws Safiyyah deep in the heart of the perilous underground resistance to the Nazis, where her bravery is put to the ultimate test… " Show less

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The Luminous Life of Lucy Landry

The Luminous Life of Lucy Landry

by Johnson, Anna Rose

Book - 2024

Lake Superior, Michigan, 1910s. Grades 4-7. "Lucy, a spirited French-Ojibwe orphan, is sent to the stormy waters of Lake Superior to live with a myst...Show more Lake Superior, Michigan, 1910s. Grades 4-7. "Lucy, a spirited French-Ojibwe orphan, is sent to the stormy waters of Lake Superior to live with a mysterious family of lighthouse-keepers—and, she hopes, to find the legendary necklace her father spent his life seeking… Selena Lucy Landry (named for a ship, as every sailor’s child should be) has been frightened of the water ever since she lost her father at sea. But with no one else to care for her, she’s sent to foster with the Martins—a large Anishinaabe family living on a lighthouse in the middle of stormy Lake Superior. The Martin family is big, hard-working, and close, and Lucy—who has always been a dreamer—struggles to fit in. Can she go one day without ruining the laundry or forgetting the sweeping? Will she ever be less afraid of the lake? Although life at the lighthouse isn’t what Lucy hoped for, it is beautiful—ships come and go, waves pound the rocks—and it has one major It’s near the site of a famous shipwreck, a shipwreck that went down with a treasure her father wanted more than anything . If Lucy can find that treasure—a priceless ruby necklace—won’t it be like having Papa back again, just a little bit? But someone else is hunting for the treasure, too. And as the lighthouse company becomes increasingly skeptical that the Martins can juggle Lucy and their duties, Lucy and the Martin children will need to find the necklace quickly—or they may not have a home at all." Show less

Lake Superior, Michigan, 1910s. Grades 4-7. "Lucy, a spirited French-Ojibwe orphan, is sent to the stormy waters of Lake Superior to live with a myst...Show more Lake Superior, Michigan, 1910s. Grades 4-7. "Lucy, a spirited French-Ojibwe orphan, is sent to the stormy waters of Lake Superior to live with a mysterious family of lighthouse-keepers—and, she hopes, to find the legendary necklace her father spent his life seeking… Selena Lucy Landry (named for a ship, as every sailor’s child should be) has been frightened of the water ever since she lost her father at sea. But with no one else to care for her, she’s sent to foster with the Martins—a large Anishinaabe family living on a lighthouse in the middle of stormy Lake Superior. The Martin family is big, hard-working, and close, and Lucy—who has always been a dreamer—struggles to fit in. Can she go one day without ruining the laundry or forgetting the sweeping? Will she ever be less afraid of the lake? Although life at the lighthouse isn’t what Lucy hoped for, it is beautiful—ships come and go, waves pound the rocks—and it has one major It’s near the site of a famous shipwreck, a shipwreck that went down with a treasure her father wanted more than anything . If Lucy can find that treasure—a priceless ruby necklace—won’t it be like having Papa back again, just a little bit? But someone else is hunting for the treasure, too. And as the lighthouse company becomes increasingly skeptical that the Martins can juggle Lucy and their duties, Lucy and the Martin children will need to find the necklace quickly—or they may not have a home at all." Show less

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Warrior on the Mound

Warrior on the Mound

by Headen, Sandra W.

Book - 2024

North Carolina, 1930s. Grades 4-7. "Narrated by twelve-year-old Cato, this intense and evocative story of racial unrest in prewar North Carolina ends...Show more North Carolina, 1930s. Grades 4-7. "Narrated by twelve-year-old Cato, this intense and evocative story of racial unrest in prewar North Carolina ends with a dramatic match between white and Black little league teams. 1935. Twelve-year-old Cato wants nothing more than to play baseball, perfect his pitch, and meet Mr. Satchel Paige––the best pitcher in Negro League baseball. But when he and his teammates “trespass” on their town’s whites-only baseball field for a practice, the resulting racial outrage burns like a brushfire through the entire community, threatening Cato, his family, and every one of his friends. There’s only one way this can end without It has to be settled on the mound, between the white team and the Black. Winner takes all. Written in first person with a rich, convincing voice, Warrior on the Mound is about the experience of segregation; about the tinderbox environment of the prewar South; about having a dream; about injustice, and, finally, about dialogue. Back matter includes an author's note, historical background, biographical information about Negro League players, and more." Show less

North Carolina, 1930s. Grades 4-7. "Narrated by twelve-year-old Cato, this intense and evocative story of racial unrest in prewar North Carolina ends...Show more North Carolina, 1930s. Grades 4-7. "Narrated by twelve-year-old Cato, this intense and evocative story of racial unrest in prewar North Carolina ends with a dramatic match between white and Black little league teams. 1935. Twelve-year-old Cato wants nothing more than to play baseball, perfect his pitch, and meet Mr. Satchel Paige––the best pitcher in Negro League baseball. But when he and his teammates “trespass” on their town’s whites-only baseball field for a practice, the resulting racial outrage burns like a brushfire through the entire community, threatening Cato, his family, and every one of his friends. There’s only one way this can end without It has to be settled on the mound, between the white team and the Black. Winner takes all. Written in first person with a rich, convincing voice, Warrior on the Mound is about the experience of segregation; about the tinderbox environment of the prewar South; about having a dream; about injustice, and, finally, about dialogue. Back matter includes an author's note, historical background, biographical information about Negro League players, and more." Show less

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Max in the House of Spies

Max in the House of Spies

by Gidwitz, Adam

Book - 2024

Great Britain, Germany, WWII. Grades 3-7. "Max Bretzfeld doesn’t want to move to London. Leaving home is hard and Max is alone for the first time in...Show more Great Britain, Germany, WWII. Grades 3-7. "Max Bretzfeld doesn’t want to move to London. Leaving home is hard and Max is alone for the first time in his life. But not for long. Max is surprised to discover that he’s been joined by two unexpected traveling companions, one on each shoulder, a kobold and a dybbuk named Berg and Stein. Germany is becoming more and more dangerous for Jewish families, but Max is determined to find a way back home, and back to his parents. He has a plan to return to Berlin. It merely involves accomplishing the impossible - becoming a British spy." Show less

Great Britain, Germany, WWII. Grades 3-7. "Max Bretzfeld doesn’t want to move to London. Leaving home is hard and Max is alone for the first time in...Show more Great Britain, Germany, WWII. Grades 3-7. "Max Bretzfeld doesn’t want to move to London. Leaving home is hard and Max is alone for the first time in his life. But not for long. Max is surprised to discover that he’s been joined by two unexpected traveling companions, one on each shoulder, a kobold and a dybbuk named Berg and Stein. Germany is becoming more and more dangerous for Jewish families, but Max is determined to find a way back home, and back to his parents. He has a plan to return to Berlin. It merely involves accomplishing the impossible - becoming a British spy." Show less

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Amil and the After

Amil and the After

by Hiranandani, Veera

Book - 2024

India, 1948. Grades 3-7. "At the turn of the new year in 1948, Amil and his family are trying to make a home in India, now independent of British rul...Show more India, 1948. Grades 3-7. "At the turn of the new year in 1948, Amil and his family are trying to make a home in India, now independent of British rule. Half-Muslim, half-Hindu, twelve-year-old Amil is not sure what home means anymore. The memory of the long and difficult journey from their hometown in what is now Pakistan lives with him. And despite having an apartment in Bombay to live in and a school to attend, life in India feels uncertain. Nisha, his twin sister, suggests that Amil begin to tell his story through drawings meant for their mother, who died when they were just babies. Through Amil, readers witness the unwavering spirit of a young boy trying to make sense of a chaotic world, and find hope for himself and a newly reborn nation." Show less

India, 1948. Grades 3-7. "At the turn of the new year in 1948, Amil and his family are trying to make a home in India, now independent of British rul...Show more India, 1948. Grades 3-7. "At the turn of the new year in 1948, Amil and his family are trying to make a home in India, now independent of British rule. Half-Muslim, half-Hindu, twelve-year-old Amil is not sure what home means anymore. The memory of the long and difficult journey from their hometown in what is now Pakistan lives with him. And despite having an apartment in Bombay to live in and a school to attend, life in India feels uncertain. Nisha, his twin sister, suggests that Amil begin to tell his story through drawings meant for their mother, who died when they were just babies. Through Amil, readers witness the unwavering spirit of a young boy trying to make sense of a chaotic world, and find hope for himself and a newly reborn nation." Show less

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Farewell Cuba, Mi Isla

Farewell Cuba, Mi Isla

by Diaz, Alexandra

Book - 2023

Cuba/USA, 1960s. Grades 4-7. "Victoria loves everything about her home in Cuba. The beautiful land, the delicious food, her best friend and cousin, J...Show more Cuba/USA, 1960s. Grades 4-7. "Victoria loves everything about her home in Cuba. The beautiful land, the delicious food, her best friend and cousin, Jackie, and her big, loving family. But it’s 1960 in Cuba, and as the political situation grows more and more dangerous, Victoria, her parents, and her two younger siblings are forced to seek refuge in America with nothing more than two changes of clothes and five dollars. Worse, they’re forced to leave the rest of their family, including Jackie, behind. In Miami, everything is different. And it’s up to Victoria to step up and help her family settle into this new world—even though she hopes they won’t be there for long. Back in Cuba, everything feels different, too. Jackie watches as friends and family flee, or worse, disappear. So, when she’s given a chance to escape to America, she takes it—even though she has to go alone. Reunited in Miami, can Victoria and Jackie find a way to bring the rest of their family to safety?" Show less

Cuba/USA, 1960s. Grades 4-7. "Victoria loves everything about her home in Cuba. The beautiful land, the delicious food, her best friend and cousin, J...Show more Cuba/USA, 1960s. Grades 4-7. "Victoria loves everything about her home in Cuba. The beautiful land, the delicious food, her best friend and cousin, Jackie, and her big, loving family. But it’s 1960 in Cuba, and as the political situation grows more and more dangerous, Victoria, her parents, and her two younger siblings are forced to seek refuge in America with nothing more than two changes of clothes and five dollars. Worse, they’re forced to leave the rest of their family, including Jackie, behind. In Miami, everything is different. And it’s up to Victoria to step up and help her family settle into this new world—even though she hopes they won’t be there for long. Back in Cuba, everything feels different, too. Jackie watches as friends and family flee, or worse, disappear. So, when she’s given a chance to escape to America, she takes it—even though she has to go alone. Reunited in Miami, can Victoria and Jackie find a way to bring the rest of their family to safety?" Show less

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In the Tunnel

In the Tunnel

by Lee, Julie

Book - 2023

North Korea, Korean War (1950-1953). Grades 4-8. "Myung-gi knows war is coming: War between North and South Korea. Life in communist North Korea has ...Show more North Korea, Korean War (1950-1953). Grades 4-8. "Myung-gi knows war is coming: War between North and South Korea. Life in communist North Korea has become more and more unbearable—there is no freedom of speech, movement, association, or thought—and his parents have been carefully planning the family’s escape. But when his father is abducted by the secret police, all those plans fall apart. How can Myung-gi leave North Korea without his dad? Especially when he believes that the abduction was his fault? Set during a cataclysmic war which shaped the world we know today, this is the story of one boy’s coming-of-age during a time when inhumanity, lawlessness, and terror reigned supreme. With only each other, Myung-gi, his mother, and his twelve-year-old sister Yoomee do everything they can to protect one another. But gentle, quiet, bookish Myung-gi has plans to find his father at any cost—even if it means joining the army and being sent to the front lines, where his deepest fears await him." Show less

North Korea, Korean War (1950-1953). Grades 4-8. "Myung-gi knows war is coming: War between North and South Korea. Life in communist North Korea has ...Show more North Korea, Korean War (1950-1953). Grades 4-8. "Myung-gi knows war is coming: War between North and South Korea. Life in communist North Korea has become more and more unbearable—there is no freedom of speech, movement, association, or thought—and his parents have been carefully planning the family’s escape. But when his father is abducted by the secret police, all those plans fall apart. How can Myung-gi leave North Korea without his dad? Especially when he believes that the abduction was his fault? Set during a cataclysmic war which shaped the world we know today, this is the story of one boy’s coming-of-age during a time when inhumanity, lawlessness, and terror reigned supreme. With only each other, Myung-gi, his mother, and his twelve-year-old sister Yoomee do everything they can to protect one another. But gentle, quiet, bookish Myung-gi has plans to find his father at any cost—even if it means joining the army and being sent to the front lines, where his deepest fears await him." Show less

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A Sky Full of Song

A Sky Full of Song

by Meyer, Susan

Book - 2023

1905 (Ukraine, and North Dakota (USA)). Grades 4-8. "In 1905, after her mother is injured in yet another attack on Jews by the tsar’s soldiers, 11-ye...Show more 1905 (Ukraine, and North Dakota (USA)). Grades 4-8. "In 1905, after her mother is injured in yet another attack on Jews by the tsar’s soldiers, 11-year-old Shoshana, her three sisters, and their mother hasten their plans to travel from Liubashevka, their village in Ukraine, to America. They’ll join Shoshana’s brother and father in North Dakota, where they’ve spent the past three years starting a farm, having themselves fled to avoid her brother’s conscription into the tsar’s army. Though Shoshana aches for her community and the silvery white birches of her homeland, her first experience of a prairie sunset pulls her to the unfamiliar terrain. As she learns about the U.S. government’s displacement of the Dakota people, Shoshana compares the act to the Russian Empire’s treatment of Jews, becoming keenly aware that this displacement made her family’s resettlement possible. The ignorance, mockery, and cruelty Shoshana and her family endure, including antisemitic slurs and physical assault, create painful conflicts between Shoshana’s pride in her identity and her desire to fit in." -- Publisher's Weekly. Show less

1905 (Ukraine, and North Dakota (USA)). Grades 4-8. "In 1905, after her mother is injured in yet another attack on Jews by the tsar’s soldiers, 11-ye...Show more 1905 (Ukraine, and North Dakota (USA)). Grades 4-8. "In 1905, after her mother is injured in yet another attack on Jews by the tsar’s soldiers, 11-year-old Shoshana, her three sisters, and their mother hasten their plans to travel from Liubashevka, their village in Ukraine, to America. They’ll join Shoshana’s brother and father in North Dakota, where they’ve spent the past three years starting a farm, having themselves fled to avoid her brother’s conscription into the tsar’s army. Though Shoshana aches for her community and the silvery white birches of her homeland, her first experience of a prairie sunset pulls her to the unfamiliar terrain. As she learns about the U.S. government’s displacement of the Dakota people, Shoshana compares the act to the Russian Empire’s treatment of Jews, becoming keenly aware that this displacement made her family’s resettlement possible. The ignorance, mockery, and cruelty Shoshana and her family endure, including antisemitic slurs and physical assault, create painful conflicts between Shoshana’s pride in her identity and her desire to fit in." -- Publisher's Weekly. Show less

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The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams

The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams

by Nayeri, Daniel

Book - 2023

Silk Road (11th Century). Grades 4-8. "Orphaned novice monk Omar is saved from stoning at the hands of his order at the start of this cleverly constr...Show more Silk Road (11th Century). Grades 4-8. "Orphaned novice monk Omar is saved from stoning at the hands of his order at the start of this cleverly constructed adventure centering two Sogdian protagonists. For the dubious equivalent of six bolts of silk, the monks trade the approximately 12-year-old child to Samir, a savvy traveling merchant known as The Seller of Dreams. As their caravan family travels the Silk Road, moving from caravanserais to cities to oases across the Taklamakan Desert en route to Samarkand, Omar, now called Monkey, observes how Samir’s dealings have earned more enemies than riches. Fearing for his own fate as a series of hired assassins tracks Samir, and beginning to intuit the man’s underlying kindness, Monkey attempts to thwart the killers, each time moving closer to gaining his freedom." -- Publisher's Weekly. Show less

Silk Road (11th Century). Grades 4-8. "Orphaned novice monk Omar is saved from stoning at the hands of his order at the start of this cleverly constr...Show more Silk Road (11th Century). Grades 4-8. "Orphaned novice monk Omar is saved from stoning at the hands of his order at the start of this cleverly constructed adventure centering two Sogdian protagonists. For the dubious equivalent of six bolts of silk, the monks trade the approximately 12-year-old child to Samir, a savvy traveling merchant known as The Seller of Dreams. As their caravan family travels the Silk Road, moving from caravanserais to cities to oases across the Taklamakan Desert en route to Samarkand, Omar, now called Monkey, observes how Samir’s dealings have earned more enemies than riches. Fearing for his own fate as a series of hired assassins tracks Samir, and beginning to intuit the man’s underlying kindness, Monkey attempts to thwart the killers, each time moving closer to gaining his freedom." -- Publisher's Weekly. Show less

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Bea and the New Deal Horse

Bea and the New Deal Horse

by Elliott, Laura

Book - 2023

USA, Depression era (1929-1941). Grades 3-7. "Abandoned by her father after Black Tuesday, thirteen-year-old Bea convinces Mrs. Scott to take in her and her sister in exchange for farm work and Bea bonds with a seemingly untrainable horse." USA, Depression era (1929-1941). Grades 3-7. "Abandoned by her father after Black Tuesday, thirteen-year-old Bea convinces Mrs. Scott to take in her and her sister in exchange for farm work and Bea bonds with a seemingly untrainable horse." Show less

USA, Depression era (1929-1941). Grades 3-7. "Abandoned by her father after Black Tuesday, thirteen-year-old Bea convinces Mrs. Scott to take in her and her sister in exchange for farm work and Bea bonds with a seemingly untrainable horse." USA, Depression era (1929-1941). Grades 3-7. "Abandoned by her father after Black Tuesday, thirteen-year-old Bea convinces Mrs. Scott to take in her and her sister in exchange for farm work and Bea bonds with a seemingly untrainable horse." Show less

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The Windeby Puzzle

The Windeby Puzzle

History and Story

by Lowry, Lois

Book - 2023

Iron Age (3500-27 BCE). Grades 5+. "Estrild is not like the other girls in her village; she wants to be a warrior. Varick, the orphan boy who helps h...Show more Iron Age (3500-27 BCE). Grades 5+. "Estrild is not like the other girls in her village; she wants to be a warrior. Varick, the orphan boy who helps her train in spite of his twisted back, also stands apart. In a world where differences are poorly tolerated, just how much danger are they in Inspired by the true discovery of the 2,000-year-old Windeby bog body in Northern Germany, Newbery Medalist and master storyteller Lois Lowry transports readers to an Iron age world as she breathes life back into the Windeby child, left in the bog to drown with a woolen blindfold over its eyes." -- Goodreads.com. Show less

Iron Age (3500-27 BCE). Grades 5+. "Estrild is not like the other girls in her village; she wants to be a warrior. Varick, the orphan boy who helps h...Show more Iron Age (3500-27 BCE). Grades 5+. "Estrild is not like the other girls in her village; she wants to be a warrior. Varick, the orphan boy who helps her train in spite of his twisted back, also stands apart. In a world where differences are poorly tolerated, just how much danger are they in Inspired by the true discovery of the 2,000-year-old Windeby bog body in Northern Germany, Newbery Medalist and master storyteller Lois Lowry transports readers to an Iron age world as she breathes life back into the Windeby child, left in the bog to drown with a woolen blindfold over its eyes." -- Goodreads.com. Show less

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How to Find What You're Not Looking for

How to Find What You're Not Looking for

by Hiranandani, Veera

Book - 2021

1960s (1967), USA. Grades 3-7/AR 4.6. Also in eBook and eAudiobook. "It's 1967 and the United States is roiling with social unrest. Ari, a young whit...Show more 1960s (1967), USA. Grades 3-7/AR 4.6. Also in eBook and eAudiobook. "It's 1967 and the United States is roiling with social unrest. Ari, a young white Jewish girl, lives in a small town in Connecticut with her family. When her older sister falls in love with Raj, a young man who recently immigrated to the United States from India, Ari's parents are vehemently opposed to the union. Torn between her love for her sister and her desire to keep her family together, Ari must find her own voice and fight for what she believes is right. " -- School Library Journal. Show less

1960s (1967), USA. Grades 3-7/AR 4.6. Also in eBook and eAudiobook. "It's 1967 and the United States is roiling with social unrest. Ari, a young whit...Show more 1960s (1967), USA. Grades 3-7/AR 4.6. Also in eBook and eAudiobook. "It's 1967 and the United States is roiling with social unrest. Ari, a young white Jewish girl, lives in a small town in Connecticut with her family. When her older sister falls in love with Raj, a young man who recently immigrated to the United States from India, Ari's parents are vehemently opposed to the union. Torn between her love for her sister and her desire to keep her family together, Ari must find her own voice and fight for what she believes is right. " -- School Library Journal. Show less

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The Blackbird Girls

The Blackbird Girls

by Blankman, Anne

Book - 2020

World War II-era Europe (1941, Ukraine and Uzbekistan), Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster (1986) Pripyat, Ukraine (then Soviet Union). Grades 4-7/AR 4.8. "I...Show more World War II-era Europe (1941, Ukraine and Uzbekistan), Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster (1986) Pripyat, Ukraine (then Soviet Union). Grades 4-7/AR 4.8. "It is 1986 in Pripyat, Ukraine, and fifth grade classmates Valentina Kaplan and Oksana Savchenko are sworn enemies. At home, Oksana's father physically abuses her and rails against Jewish people, and at school Oksana bullies Valentina, who is Jewish. But when a reactor explodes at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant where both girls' fathers work, they find themselves thrown together in the tumultuous evacuation. With a dead father and a hospitalized mother, Oksana's only chance of safety is to accompany her classmate to Valentina's grandmother's home in distant Leningrad. The warmth and compassion of Valentina and her grandmother shock Oksana, who begins to realize that everything her father told her about Jews was wrong—which means that maybe he was also wrong when he called Oksana weak and unlovable. In time, the two girls learn to trust each other with their respective secrets and develop a life-sustaining friendship. This story, told in Oksana's and Valentina's alternating perspectives, is interspersed with a third perspective from 1941, that of Rifka (a Jewish girl fleeing Kiev and the advancing German army on foot), who finds shelter and friendship in Uzbekistan. " -- School Library Journal. Show less

World War II-era Europe (1941, Ukraine and Uzbekistan), Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster (1986) Pripyat, Ukraine (then Soviet Union). Grades 4-7/AR 4.8. "I...Show more World War II-era Europe (1941, Ukraine and Uzbekistan), Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster (1986) Pripyat, Ukraine (then Soviet Union). Grades 4-7/AR 4.8. "It is 1986 in Pripyat, Ukraine, and fifth grade classmates Valentina Kaplan and Oksana Savchenko are sworn enemies. At home, Oksana's father physically abuses her and rails against Jewish people, and at school Oksana bullies Valentina, who is Jewish. But when a reactor explodes at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant where both girls' fathers work, they find themselves thrown together in the tumultuous evacuation. With a dead father and a hospitalized mother, Oksana's only chance of safety is to accompany her classmate to Valentina's grandmother's home in distant Leningrad. The warmth and compassion of Valentina and her grandmother shock Oksana, who begins to realize that everything her father told her about Jews was wrong—which means that maybe he was also wrong when he called Oksana weak and unlovable. In time, the two girls learn to trust each other with their respective secrets and develop a life-sustaining friendship. This story, told in Oksana's and Valentina's alternating perspectives, is interspersed with a third perspective from 1941, that of Rifka (a Jewish girl fleeing Kiev and the advancing German army on foot), who finds shelter and friendship in Uzbekistan. " -- School Library Journal. Show less

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Indian No More

Indian No More

by McManis, Charlene Willing

Book - 2019

Mid-century, Oregon and California, USA. Grades 3-7/AR 4.4. "Regina Petit knew she was Indian because she had a tribal roll number—3669. But in 1954 ...Show more Mid-century, Oregon and California, USA. Grades 3-7/AR 4.4. "Regina Petit knew she was Indian because she had a tribal roll number—3669. But in 1954 when the Umpqua, along with other tribes along Oregon’s Grand Ronde had their tribal status terminated by the federal government, she was left with an empty sense of who exactly she was. With jacked up prices forcing them off their tribal land and no more government protections, the Petit family took up the Indian Relocation Program’s offer of opportunity and new beginnings. What begins as a story of displacement quickly turns into a story of childhood fun and antics colored by Umpqua culture and the racial tensions of the civil rights movement set in the lively and culturally diverse city of L.A." -- Booklist. Show less

Mid-century, Oregon and California, USA. Grades 3-7/AR 4.4. "Regina Petit knew she was Indian because she had a tribal roll number—3669. But in 1954 ...Show more Mid-century, Oregon and California, USA. Grades 3-7/AR 4.4. "Regina Petit knew she was Indian because she had a tribal roll number—3669. But in 1954 when the Umpqua, along with other tribes along Oregon’s Grand Ronde had their tribal status terminated by the federal government, she was left with an empty sense of who exactly she was. With jacked up prices forcing them off their tribal land and no more government protections, the Petit family took up the Indian Relocation Program’s offer of opportunity and new beginnings. What begins as a story of displacement quickly turns into a story of childhood fun and antics colored by Umpqua culture and the racial tensions of the civil rights movement set in the lively and culturally diverse city of L.A." -- Booklist. Show less

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Planet Earth Is Blue

Planet Earth Is Blue

by Panteleakos, Nicole

Book - 2019

1980s, USA. Grades 3-7/AR 5.0. "Nova, 12, is autistic and nonverbal, and she and her devoted older sister, Bridget, have been bounced from foster hom...Show more 1980s, USA. Grades 3-7/AR 5.0. "Nova, 12, is autistic and nonverbal, and she and her devoted older sister, Bridget, have been bounced from foster home to foster home since Nova was five. The story's set in the mid-1980s, so the resources available to Nova are paltry, and the language about her diagnosis is hurtful, though Bridget and Nova's new foster parents, Francine and Billy, are wonderfully supportive. Bridget spent years teaching Nova about astronomy and space travel, reading to her, and defending her. But now Bridget is gone, and Nova is holding out hope that she'll return to watch the Challenger launch with her." -- Booklist. Show less

1980s, USA. Grades 3-7/AR 5.0. "Nova, 12, is autistic and nonverbal, and she and her devoted older sister, Bridget, have been bounced from foster hom...Show more 1980s, USA. Grades 3-7/AR 5.0. "Nova, 12, is autistic and nonverbal, and she and her devoted older sister, Bridget, have been bounced from foster home to foster home since Nova was five. The story's set in the mid-1980s, so the resources available to Nova are paltry, and the language about her diagnosis is hurtful, though Bridget and Nova's new foster parents, Francine and Billy, are wonderfully supportive. Bridget spent years teaching Nova about astronomy and space travel, reading to her, and defending her. But now Bridget is gone, and Nova is holding out hope that she'll return to watch the Challenger launch with her." -- Booklist. Show less

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A Place to Belong

A Place to Belong

by Kadohata, Cynthia

Book - 2019

Post-World War II, Hiroshima, Japan. Grades 4-7/AR 4.6. "World War II has ended and 12-year-old Hanako, her five-year old brother Akira, and their Am...Show more Post-World War II, Hiroshima, Japan. Grades 4-7/AR 4.6. "World War II has ended and 12-year-old Hanako, her five-year old brother Akira, and their American-born parents have spent the past four years imprisoned in a series of internment camps. Hana's parents accept an offer from the U.S. government to renounce their American citizenship and expatriate to Japan. Their plan is to live with Hanako's father's parents, poor tenant farmers outside the city of Hiroshima. Hanako is hopeful for her family's new chance in Japan and immediately loves her Jiichan and Baachan but is faced with the realities of life in an unfamiliar, war-blighted country. Resources are scarce; as her family toils endlessly to keep food in the house, Hanako is torn between providing for her family and sharing what little she has with the people she encounters around Hiroshima." -- School Library Journal. Show less

Post-World War II, Hiroshima, Japan. Grades 4-7/AR 4.6. "World War II has ended and 12-year-old Hanako, her five-year old brother Akira, and their Am...Show more Post-World War II, Hiroshima, Japan. Grades 4-7/AR 4.6. "World War II has ended and 12-year-old Hanako, her five-year old brother Akira, and their American-born parents have spent the past four years imprisoned in a series of internment camps. Hana's parents accept an offer from the U.S. government to renounce their American citizenship and expatriate to Japan. Their plan is to live with Hanako's father's parents, poor tenant farmers outside the city of Hiroshima. Hanako is hopeful for her family's new chance in Japan and immediately loves her Jiichan and Baachan but is faced with the realities of life in an unfamiliar, war-blighted country. Resources are scarce; as her family toils endlessly to keep food in the house, Hanako is torn between providing for her family and sharing what little she has with the people she encounters around Hiroshima." -- School Library Journal. Show less

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Last of the Name

Last of the Name

by Parry, Rosanne

Book - 2019

Civil War Era (1863), New York, USA. Grades 4-7/AR 4.8. "It’s 1863 when 12-year-old Danny and his 16-year-old sister, Kathleen, arrive in New York Ci...Show more Civil War Era (1863), New York, USA. Grades 4-7/AR 4.8. "It’s 1863 when 12-year-old Danny and his 16-year-old sister, Kathleen, arrive in New York City penniless. The only job Kathleen can find is in domestic servitude, but there’s a catch: there’s no spot for a boy, so they dress up Danny as Kathleen’s sister. Danny struggles with all of it, especially once his eyes are opened to the many hardships of being female in the mid-nineteenth century. In one of the few moments out on the streets as himself, he’s noticed for his dancing and his pure, golden voice. Could it be their ticket out of this hardscrabble existence?" -- Booklist. Show less

Civil War Era (1863), New York, USA. Grades 4-7/AR 4.8. "It’s 1863 when 12-year-old Danny and his 16-year-old sister, Kathleen, arrive in New York Ci...Show more Civil War Era (1863), New York, USA. Grades 4-7/AR 4.8. "It’s 1863 when 12-year-old Danny and his 16-year-old sister, Kathleen, arrive in New York City penniless. The only job Kathleen can find is in domestic servitude, but there’s a catch: there’s no spot for a boy, so they dress up Danny as Kathleen’s sister. Danny struggles with all of it, especially once his eyes are opened to the many hardships of being female in the mid-nineteenth century. In one of the few moments out on the streets as himself, he’s noticed for his dancing and his pure, golden voice. Could it be their ticket out of this hardscrabble existence?" -- Booklist. Show less

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Orange for the Sunsets

Orange for the Sunsets

by Athaide, Tina

Book - 2019

1970s, Uganda. Grades 4-6/AR 4.1. "Asha and Yesofu are best friends, despite the fact that the wealthy Asha is Indian and Yesofu is African. Asha isn...Show more 1970s, Uganda. Grades 4-6/AR 4.1. "Asha and Yesofu are best friends, despite the fact that the wealthy Asha is Indian and Yesofu is African. Asha isn’t always aware of her privilege, but Yesofu is all too conscious of the inequalities between Indians and Africans in Uganda. Things get exponentially more complicated when Idi Amin announces that all of the Indians in Uganda must leave. At first, Yesofu supports Amin’s plan, seeing in it the potential of a brighter future for his family. But when both Yesofu and Asha see the violent reality of the expulsion, everything they used to think shatters. " -- Booklist. Show less

1970s, Uganda. Grades 4-6/AR 4.1. "Asha and Yesofu are best friends, despite the fact that the wealthy Asha is Indian and Yesofu is African. Asha isn...Show more 1970s, Uganda. Grades 4-6/AR 4.1. "Asha and Yesofu are best friends, despite the fact that the wealthy Asha is Indian and Yesofu is African. Asha isn’t always aware of her privilege, but Yesofu is all too conscious of the inequalities between Indians and Africans in Uganda. Things get exponentially more complicated when Idi Amin announces that all of the Indians in Uganda must leave. At first, Yesofu supports Amin’s plan, seeing in it the potential of a brighter future for his family. But when both Yesofu and Asha see the violent reality of the expulsion, everything they used to think shatters. " -- Booklist. Show less

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The Unsung Hero of Birdsong, USA

The Unsung Hero of Birdsong, USA

by Woods, Brenda

Book - 2019

Jim Crow South (1946). Grades 4-6/AR 4.9. "On Gabriel's twelfth birthday, he gets a new bike--and is so excited that he accidentally rides it right i...Show more Jim Crow South (1946). Grades 4-6/AR 4.9. "On Gabriel's twelfth birthday, he gets a new bike--and is so excited that he accidentally rides it right into the path of a car. Fortunately, a Black man named Meriwether pushes him out of the way just in time, and fixes his damaged bike. As a thank you, Gabriel gets him a job at his dad's auto shop. Gabriel's dad hires him with some hesitation, however, anticipating trouble with the other mechanic, who makes no secret of his racist opinions. Gabriel and Meriwether become friends, and Gabriel learns that Meriwether drove a tank in the Army's all-Black 761st Tank Battalion in WWII. Meriwether is proud of his service, but has to keep it a secret because talking about it could be dangerous. Sadly, danger finds Meriwether, anyway, when his family receives a frightening threat. The South being the way it is, there's no guarantee that the police will help--and Gabriel doesn't know what will happen if Meriwether feels forced to take the law into his own hands." -- Goodreads.com. Show less

Jim Crow South (1946). Grades 4-6/AR 4.9. "On Gabriel's twelfth birthday, he gets a new bike--and is so excited that he accidentally rides it right i...Show more Jim Crow South (1946). Grades 4-6/AR 4.9. "On Gabriel's twelfth birthday, he gets a new bike--and is so excited that he accidentally rides it right into the path of a car. Fortunately, a Black man named Meriwether pushes him out of the way just in time, and fixes his damaged bike. As a thank you, Gabriel gets him a job at his dad's auto shop. Gabriel's dad hires him with some hesitation, however, anticipating trouble with the other mechanic, who makes no secret of his racist opinions. Gabriel and Meriwether become friends, and Gabriel learns that Meriwether drove a tank in the Army's all-Black 761st Tank Battalion in WWII. Meriwether is proud of his service, but has to keep it a secret because talking about it could be dangerous. Sadly, danger finds Meriwether, anyway, when his family receives a frightening threat. The South being the way it is, there's no guarantee that the police will help--and Gabriel doesn't know what will happen if Meriwether feels forced to take the law into his own hands." -- Goodreads.com. Show less

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Journey to A Promised Land

Journey to A Promised Land

A Story of the Exodusters

by Lassieur, Allison

Book - 2019

Great Exodus/Post-Civil War USA (1879). Grades 4-6. "Hattie's parents decide to join the movement of free blacks from their home state of Tennessee w...Show more Great Exodus/Post-Civil War USA (1879). Grades 4-6. "Hattie's parents decide to join the movement of free blacks from their home state of Tennessee west to Kansas for the opportunities in bourgeoning black communities, but the journey is harder than they anticipated. Since Emancipation, Hattie's parents have sought every opportunity, from pursuing education to opening a successful blacksmith shop. They work hard but want for nothing: Their community supports Papa's business, Hattie's teacher believes in her, and while the white woman for whom Hattie does chores is unpleasant company, she pays Hattie a helpful wage. But a man named Singleton comes to town announcing opportunities in Kansas—including free land and all-black towns. When the harassment from Papa's former master becomes violent, Hattie's parents decide to make the long journey. " -- Kirkus. Show less

Great Exodus/Post-Civil War USA (1879). Grades 4-6. "Hattie's parents decide to join the movement of free blacks from their home state of Tennessee w...Show more Great Exodus/Post-Civil War USA (1879). Grades 4-6. "Hattie's parents decide to join the movement of free blacks from their home state of Tennessee west to Kansas for the opportunities in bourgeoning black communities, but the journey is harder than they anticipated. Since Emancipation, Hattie's parents have sought every opportunity, from pursuing education to opening a successful blacksmith shop. They work hard but want for nothing: Their community supports Papa's business, Hattie's teacher believes in her, and while the white woman for whom Hattie does chores is unpleasant company, she pays Hattie a helpful wage. But a man named Singleton comes to town announcing opportunities in Kansas—including free land and all-black towns. When the harassment from Papa's former master becomes violent, Hattie's parents decide to make the long journey. " -- Kirkus. Show less

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A Circle of Elephants

A Circle of Elephants

by Dinerstein, Eric

Book - 2019

1970s, Nepal. Grades 4-8/AR 5.7. "In the new Royal Elephant Breeding Center, 13-year-old Nandu lives with his adoptive father. Nandu and Hira Prasad,...Show more 1970s, Nepal. Grades 4-8/AR 5.7. "In the new Royal Elephant Breeding Center, 13-year-old Nandu lives with his adoptive father. Nandu and Hira Prasad, the center's powerful bull elephant, forge a bond when they experience an earthquake together. This moment sparks an emotional journey for Nandu as he comes to grips with the reality of the time and place: animal poaching. Nandu, the narrator, is able to relate to the characters in the story on a deep level, having experienced loss among his people and the animals that surround him. " -- School Library Journal. Show less

1970s, Nepal. Grades 4-8/AR 5.7. "In the new Royal Elephant Breeding Center, 13-year-old Nandu lives with his adoptive father. Nandu and Hira Prasad,...Show more 1970s, Nepal. Grades 4-8/AR 5.7. "In the new Royal Elephant Breeding Center, 13-year-old Nandu lives with his adoptive father. Nandu and Hira Prasad, the center's powerful bull elephant, forge a bond when they experience an earthquake together. This moment sparks an emotional journey for Nandu as he comes to grips with the reality of the time and place: animal poaching. Nandu, the narrator, is able to relate to the characters in the story on a deep level, having experienced loss among his people and the animals that surround him. " -- School Library Journal. Show less

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Swallow's Dance

Swallow's Dance

by Orr, Wendy

Book - 2018

Bronze Age, Aegean Sea/Minoan Civilization (2000-1100 BCE). Grades 5-8/AR 6.0. "Leira is one of the Swallow Clan on the Minoan island of Thera in the...Show more Bronze Age, Aegean Sea/Minoan Civilization (2000-1100 BCE). Grades 5-8/AR 6.0. "Leira is one of the Swallow Clan on the Minoan island of Thera in the Bronze Age, beginning her ""learning,"" after which she will be a priestess, like other women in her clan. Her happy existence is cut short, however, when an earthquake devastates the whole island, severely injuring her mother and leaving them homeless. First they take refuge at a farm, but Leira's father, a merchant sea captain, interprets an oracle's message as a warning of more disaster to come. Leira and her family sail to the island of Crete, but after Leira's father and brother leave to gather goods, a volcano near Thera erupts (an actual event), a tsunami almost wipes out the city, and Leira is left to help her injured mother and their slave, Nunu, on a perilous journey to safety. As she faces the demands of sheer survival, Leira gradually realizes that the privileges afforded to her, thanks to her social status, are meaningless, and she starts taking on whatever unpleasant job she must to protect herself and her family." -- Booklist. Show less

Bronze Age, Aegean Sea/Minoan Civilization (2000-1100 BCE). Grades 5-8/AR 6.0. "Leira is one of the Swallow Clan on the Minoan island of Thera in the...Show more Bronze Age, Aegean Sea/Minoan Civilization (2000-1100 BCE). Grades 5-8/AR 6.0. "Leira is one of the Swallow Clan on the Minoan island of Thera in the Bronze Age, beginning her ""learning,"" after which she will be a priestess, like other women in her clan. Her happy existence is cut short, however, when an earthquake devastates the whole island, severely injuring her mother and leaving them homeless. First they take refuge at a farm, but Leira's father, a merchant sea captain, interprets an oracle's message as a warning of more disaster to come. Leira and her family sail to the island of Crete, but after Leira's father and brother leave to gather goods, a volcano near Thera erupts (an actual event), a tsunami almost wipes out the city, and Leira is left to help her injured mother and their slave, Nunu, on a perilous journey to safety. As she faces the demands of sheer survival, Leira gradually realizes that the privileges afforded to her, thanks to her social status, are meaningless, and she starts taking on whatever unpleasant job she must to protect herself and her family." -- Booklist. Show less

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Lifeboat 12

Lifeboat 12

Based on A True Story

by Hood, Susan

Book - 2018

World War II-era (1940s). Grades 4-7/AR 4.0. "In 1940, a group of British children, their escorts, and some sailors struggle to survive in a lifeboat when the ship taking them to safety in Canada is torpedoed." -- Novelist. World War II-era (1940s). Grades 4-7/AR 4.0. "In 1940, a group of British children, their escorts, and some sailors struggle to survive in a lifeboat when the ship taking them to safety in Canada is torpedoed." -- Novelist. Show less

World War II-era (1940s). Grades 4-7/AR 4.0. "In 1940, a group of British children, their escorts, and some sailors struggle to survive in a lifeboat when the ship taking them to safety in Canada is torpedoed." -- Novelist. World War II-era (1940s). Grades 4-7/AR 4.0. "In 1940, a group of British children, their escorts, and some sailors struggle to survive in a lifeboat when the ship taking them to safety in Canada is torpedoed." -- Novelist. Show less

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Everything Else in the Universe

Everything Else in the Universe

by Holczer, Tracy

Book - 2018

Vietnam War-era (1970s)/ Grades 4-6/AR 5.5. Also in eBook. "Twelve-year-old Lucy’s surgeon father is coming home from Vietnam—minus his arm. Steady, ...Show more Vietnam War-era (1970s)/ Grades 4-6/AR 5.5. Also in eBook. "Twelve-year-old Lucy’s surgeon father is coming home from Vietnam—minus his arm. Steady, solemn Lucy has held things together in the year he’s been gone by studying the rocks he’s sent her, trying to fit in with his boisterous Italian family, and being a team with her patrician mother. But the move to California has left her friendless until she meets Milo, whose father is still in Vietnam. When they find military artifacts, including photos and a Purple Heart, buried nearby, the duo decide to locate the rightful owner. " -- Booklist. Show less

Vietnam War-era (1970s)/ Grades 4-6/AR 5.5. Also in eBook. "Twelve-year-old Lucy’s surgeon father is coming home from Vietnam—minus his arm. Steady, ...Show more Vietnam War-era (1970s)/ Grades 4-6/AR 5.5. Also in eBook. "Twelve-year-old Lucy’s surgeon father is coming home from Vietnam—minus his arm. Steady, solemn Lucy has held things together in the year he’s been gone by studying the rocks he’s sent her, trying to fit in with his boisterous Italian family, and being a team with her patrician mother. But the move to California has left her friendless until she meets Milo, whose father is still in Vietnam. When they find military artifacts, including photos and a Purple Heart, buried nearby, the duo decide to locate the rightful owner. " -- Booklist. Show less

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The Island at the End of Everything

The Island at the End of Everything

by Hargrave, Kiran Millwood

Book - 2018

Early 20th-century (1906), Culion, Philippines. Grades 4-7/AR 5.0. "Amihan was born on the island of Culion in the Philippines, but most of the islan...Show more Early 20th-century (1906), Culion, Philippines. Grades 4-7/AR 5.0. "Amihan was born on the island of Culion in the Philippines, but most of the islands' residents were brought there after contracting leprosy. Ami's Nanay (mother) was sent there shortly after her diagnosis—she discovered she was pregnant upon arrival. Ami and her mother live a peaceful life for 12 years until the arrival of Mr. Zambora, a government official sent to remove all uninfected children. Ami and other uninfected children are sent to an orphanage on another island. When Ami learns her Nanay has taken a turn for the worse, she's desperate to get back and solicits the help of friend Mari." -- School Library Journal. Show less

Early 20th-century (1906), Culion, Philippines. Grades 4-7/AR 5.0. "Amihan was born on the island of Culion in the Philippines, but most of the islan...Show more Early 20th-century (1906), Culion, Philippines. Grades 4-7/AR 5.0. "Amihan was born on the island of Culion in the Philippines, but most of the islands' residents were brought there after contracting leprosy. Ami's Nanay (mother) was sent there shortly after her diagnosis—she discovered she was pregnant upon arrival. Ami and her mother live a peaceful life for 12 years until the arrival of Mr. Zambora, a government official sent to remove all uninfected children. Ami and other uninfected children are sent to an orphanage on another island. When Ami learns her Nanay has taken a turn for the worse, she's desperate to get back and solicits the help of friend Mari." -- School Library Journal. Show less

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