A Big Dose of Lucky

Gr 9 Up—Two Canadian teens struggle to make their way in the 1960s after a fire destroys their orphanage. Malou, the 16-year-old protagonist of A Big Dose of Lucky, is served a heaping helping of misfortune in the first chapters of this quick read. From harassment by the town thugs to her ultimate triumph in discovering who her parents are, Malou develops from a sheltered waif to a powerful young woman who is proud of her dark skin and is relentless in her pursuit of the truth about her heritage. Jocelyn does not shy away from the central conflicts of race, interracial relationships, or same-sex marriage in this highly engaging work of historical fiction. In Stones on a Grave, Sara is industrious, has big dreams, and is newly 18. Sara's story is narrated in the third person, and that distance may strain readers' willingness to go along for the ride. After the fire, Sara is given a necklace with a Star of David, a little money, and some basic information about her journey to Canada from Germany as an infant refugee of the Holocaust. Once in Germany, Sara finds true love, is reunited with a long-lost relative, and must make a decision about the future she will pursue. Kacer's comparison of healthy and unhealthy relationships may resonate with some readers, as will her themes of survival, both of the Holocaust and of rape. This entry has a plot filled with potential but delivers a less satisfying story than some of the other books in the series.