The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly

In 1899 in rural southern Texas, girls were expected to learn to keep house, make fine embroidery and cook for their families. Calpurnia Virginia Tate, known as Callie Vee, feels this is most unfair and would much prefer to spend time with her grandfather exploring nature and learning about Charles Darwin. She would like to have the same opportunities for an education and a paying job as her 6 brothers do. Her parents disagree of course. Only her grandfather understands and it is his interest in her and his sense of humor which save the day for both of them.

Crispin: the end of time by Avi

This is the final book in the trilogy which began with Crispin, the Cross of Lead. Crispin and Troth are in rural France. They are lost and do not speak French. Some helpful villagers lead them to a convent where Troth feels more at home than she has ever felt before. Crispin reluctantly leaves her behind to search for the country of Iceland where Bear had told them they would find a land of freedom. He finds a way when he meets a company of musicians and thieves. However he must escape from them to pursue his dream of reaching Iceland. If you have read the first two books you will want to finish the journey. If you missed the first two books, the story will still satisfy your sense of adventure in a dangerous and exciting land.

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

What is time? Can you move between time now and another time? Can a person reach out to help another person in another time and place? If you have read A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle you will appreciate the connections with this book. It is the main character, Miranda’s favorite book and helps her understand some mysteries involving several unusual people in her New York city neighborhood.