One Shadow on the Wall
Leah Henderson
(Author)
21,000+ Reviews
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Description
An orphaned boy in contemporary Senegal must decide between doing what is right and what is easy as he struggles to keep a promise he made to his dying father in this "stirring" (School Library Journal) middle grade debut novel laced with magical realism. Eleven-year-old Mor was used to hearing his father's voice, even if no one else could since his father's death. It was comforting. It was also a reminder that Mor had made a promise to his father before he passed: keep your sisters safe. Keep the family together. But almost as soon as they are orphaned, that promise seems impossible to keep. With an aunt from the big city ready to separate him and his sisters as soon as she arrives, and a gang of boys from a nearby village wanting everything he has--including his spirit--Mor is tested in ways he never imagined. With only the hot summer months to prove himself, Mor must face a choice. Does he listen to his father and keep his heart true, but risk breaking his promise through failure? Or is it easier to just join the Danka Boys, who despite their maliciousness are at least loyal to their own? One Shadow on the Wall is about love and loss, family and friendship, and creating your own future--even when it's hard to do.
Product Details
Price
$18.99
$17.66
Publisher
Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Publish Date
June 06, 2017
Pages
448
Dimensions
5.7 X 8.2 X 1.4 inches | 1.0 pounds
Language
English
Type
Hardcover
EAN/UPC
9781481462952
BISAC Categories:
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About the Author
Leah Henderson is the author of many critically acclaimed books for young readers, including The Magic in Changing Your Stars; Your Voice, Your Vote; The Courage of the Little Hummingbird; and Together We March. She holds an MFA in writing and teaches in Spalding University's graduate writing program. Because she has serious wanderlust, when she isn't creating stories, she's off someplace in the world getting lost, then found, discovering new ones. Visit her at leahhendersonbooks.com.
Reviews
"To read Leah Henderson's remarkable debut is to be utterly transported to a world that is at once mesmerizing, harrowing, and full of profound grace. Even as I rushed through this page-turner, I didn't want it to end; I wanted to bask in its evocative language, and fell completely in love with its loyal, clever hero. Give this to book to anyone who has ever struggled to decide between doing what is right, and what easy - namely, everyone." --I.W. Gregorio, author of None of the Above
"In her debut, Henderson paints a detailed picture of life in Senegal. The author's experience, research, and sensitivity shine, making this distinctive novel a valuable addition to the literature....A book that rewards patient, sensitive readers willing to dive in."--Kirkus Reviews "May 15, 2017"
"Henderson creates a multifaceted portrayal of Senegalese village life. Senegalese vocabulary (presumably Wolof) peppered throughout enriches the text....A stirring tale"--School Library Journal "June 2017"
"Debut author Henderson's depiction of Senegalese life is well researched and warm with affection....Mor's drive to do right and his love for his family are unmistakable. Keep an eye on this author!"--Booklist "May 31, 2017"
"Through tight, polished sentences and a smattering of regional vocabulary, debut novelist Henderson believably evokes the harsh realities of the impoverished seaside village and the resilience of its residents....Mor's indomitable spirit, love for his family, and refusal to give up make him a fascinating and well-rounded protagonist"--Publisher's Weekly "June 19, 2017"
"...offers well-developed characters, lots of action, unexpected plot twists, and vivid insights into African village life....All these components come together in a satisfying story that will captivate dedicated readers."--School Library Connection "August/September 2017"
"A poignant yet hopeful story of surviving the world through the power of promises."--Kathy Erskine, National Book Award winning author of Mockingbird
"In her debut, Henderson paints a detailed picture of life in Senegal. The author's experience, research, and sensitivity shine, making this distinctive novel a valuable addition to the literature....A book that rewards patient, sensitive readers willing to dive in."--Kirkus Reviews "May 15, 2017"
"Henderson creates a multifaceted portrayal of Senegalese village life. Senegalese vocabulary (presumably Wolof) peppered throughout enriches the text....A stirring tale"--School Library Journal "June 2017"
"Debut author Henderson's depiction of Senegalese life is well researched and warm with affection....Mor's drive to do right and his love for his family are unmistakable. Keep an eye on this author!"--Booklist "May 31, 2017"
"Through tight, polished sentences and a smattering of regional vocabulary, debut novelist Henderson believably evokes the harsh realities of the impoverished seaside village and the resilience of its residents....Mor's indomitable spirit, love for his family, and refusal to give up make him a fascinating and well-rounded protagonist"--Publisher's Weekly "June 19, 2017"
"...offers well-developed characters, lots of action, unexpected plot twists, and vivid insights into African village life....All these components come together in a satisfying story that will captivate dedicated readers."--School Library Connection "August/September 2017"
"A poignant yet hopeful story of surviving the world through the power of promises."--Kathy Erskine, National Book Award winning author of Mockingbird
