About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
Amelia’s world came crashing down when her parents separated and she was forced to relocate with her mother to a new part of town.
When Duke and Gabriella move into the suite downstairs with their menagerie of exotic animals, Amelia feels like she’s been thrown a lifeline. Helping care for the animals gives Amelia a sense of purpose, and she’s determined to keep Duke and Gabriella’s secret. But eventually her mother discovers the animals and refuses to let them stay. To make matters worse, Winston, a sulcata tortoise, has fallen ill, and the medical bills are piling up. Can Amelia figure out a way to help save Winston and keep her newfound family together?
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 9 to 12
- Grade:
- 4 to 7
- Reading age:
- 9 to 12
Awards
- , Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association (PNBA) Pacific Northwest Book Awards
- Short-listed, Chocolate Lily Book Award
- Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens
Editorial Reviews
"Citra keeps the focus light...and delivers some life lessons with grace. The story neatly focuses on the passions not only of Amelia, but also of Duke and Gabriella, in whom Amelia finds an extended family after her parents' divorce. It all comes together in a lovely little episode that animal-loving young readers should especially find resonant. Sweet and lively."
— Kirkus Reviews
"Short, manageable chapters lend readability...will especially appeal to animal-lovers and -caregivers."
— Booklist
"Readers will be pleased...wonderful as a classroom read-aloud."
— School Library Connection
"The human relationships are caring without being perfect...Authentic. Recommended."
— CM Magazine
