Ninth Ward by Jewell Parker Rhodes

An historical novel about Hurricane Katrina, Ninth Ward by Jewell Parker Rhodes (Lexile HL 470 (HL stands for High/ Low--high level content with a low reading level); Interest Level: Grades 5-8) tells the story of Lanesha, a 12 year old girl being raised by Mama Ya Ya, the local midwife.  Lanesha has the gift of seeing ghosts, and it makes her feel like an outcast at school.  So, on her own with Mama Ya Ya and a couple of new friends she makes after her 12th birthday (because 12 is a lucky number), Lanesha prepares for the hurricane that is coming their way.  How she deals with the big changes coming her way shows a strength of character for such a young girl.  I have to admit, however, that I sort of wish this book had an afterward or an epilogue to tell us what happens after the story.  My curiosity is peaked!  (217 pages)

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