M.C. Higgins, the Great

Winner of a Newbery Medal, a National Book Award, named an ALA Notable Book, designated as a School Library Journal Best of the Best, and named one of the New York Times Outstanding Children's Books of the Year, this intense, complex, young adult novel has dazzled readers for over 20 years.

Written by celebrated author Virginia Hamilton, this is the story of M.C. Higgins, a young boy who lives with his family near Sarah's Mountain, who must come to terms with who he is and what he wants in life. When M.C.'s great-grandmother escaped from slavery long ago, she came to the mountain and made it her home. And now, it's M.C.'s home, but not for long. From his home, M.C. hears the bulldozers, cracking away at the mountain and its people, bit by slow bit, and he knows that his family will have to leave soon. But two mysterious strangers suddenly appear, offering him gifts he never dreamed of, and M.C. finally learns how to save himself and his family.

The author has created characters, powerful and poignant, and the story they share is sure to leave an indelible mark on any reader's mind. Hamilton's descriptions of family relationships and loyalties are outstanding, as well. Though it is not an easy read, because it deals with painful issues and explores them all deeply and powerfully, this absorbing read will leave readers in awe.