Publisher Description

Patricia MacLachlan, Newbery Medal–winning author of Sarah, Plain and Tall, weaves a poignant story that celebrates how our unique "small truths" make each of us magical and brave in our own ways.When Robbie spends the summer at his grandmother Maddy's house, he revels in his grandmother's easy, relaxed ways. Robbie has always felt as if something is missing in his life—his parents don't always act like they love him. Maddy helps him understand that an experience his mother had long ago is at the heart of the problem in his family. With this knowledge, Robbie finds the courage to try to make things right.Publishers Weekly Best Children's Book
ALA Booklist Notable Children's Books Nominee
New York Public Library's 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing 

Back Cover

When Robbie and his dog, Ellie, spend the summer at his grandmother Maddy's house, Robbie revels in his grandmother's easy, relaxed ways, such as eating doughnuts once for dinner. Robbie understands there's something missing in his everyday life with his parents, but he doesn't know what it is. Maddy makes Robbie's parents nervous, which is one of the reasons Robbie likes Maddy. He likes her stories and the way wild animals come right up to her, without any fear. Maddy helps Robbie find "the truth of me." The truth has to do with something that happened to his mother a long time ago. And it helps Robbie realize what he's really missing and gives him the confidence to make things right. This poignant story from beloved author Patricia MacLachlan celebrates how our unique "small truths" make each of us magical and brave in our own ways.

Author Biography

Patricia MacLachlan is the best-selling author of many beloved books for young readers, including SARAH, PLAIN AND TALL, winner of the Newbery Medal. Her novels for young readers include ARTHUR FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME, THE FACTS AND FICTIONS OF MINNA PRATT, SKYLARK, CALEB'S STORY, MORE PERFECT THAN THE MOON, and GRANDFATHER'S DANCE. She is also the author of many timeless picture books, including THREE NAMES, WHO LOVES ME?, WHAT YOU KNOW FIRST, ALL THE PLACES TO LOVE, PAINTING THE WIND, BITTLE, and ONCE I ATE A PIE, several of which she co-wrote with her daughter, Emily. She lives with her husband and two border terriers in Williamsburg, Massachusetts.

Review

"Brief but emotionally intense...MacLachlan demonstrates her mastery of elegantly unfolding a tale and gently plucking at readers' heartstrings without taking a maudlin tone." -- Publishers Weekly (starred review)"A spare, poetically composed tale written in short chapters perfect for beginning read-it-alone readers, this should resonate with young and old alike--and makes for a great intergenerational story to share." -- ALA Booklist"An elegant exploration of love and familial relationships...This story is well paced and rhythmic in its dialogue, lending itself well to a group read-aloud." -- School Library Journal

Review Quote

Praise for Kindred Souls: "These are time-sculpted themes-the bond between a child and a grandparent, a child's first experience of death, the comfort of continuity and connection to the natural world

Details