Jelly Bean Summer [Hardcover]

<p><em>At breakfast, I sit at the table and work on three things:</em></p><p><em>1. A bowl of Rice Krispies with sliced banana on top <br>2. My courage <br>3. How exactly to tell Mom I'm moving to the roof </em></p><p>Joyce is desperate to get out of the room she shares with her older sister. All she wants is some peace and quiet, not the kind that fills the space left by her missing brother and tastes like butterscotch gone sour, the kind where you can breathe deep and see the stars. </p><p>So she moves to the roof. Up there it's nothing but blue sky. Blue sky and....another roof dweller? Joyce soon discovers she's not the only one who's been driven to rooftop living. With the help of a pair of binoculars, a sketch pad, and a pen, Joyce makes an unexpected friend and sets in motion a summer she'll never forget.</p>"Readers will devour these brightly shining characters and enjoy details such as Joyce's fearlessness, Elaine's artistic vision, Dad's secret project in the basement, and Mom's green thumb. A vivid historical story with heart...A vivid historical story with heart. The Vietnam War creates a compelling backdrop for this engaging, poignant work" - <strong><em>School Library Journal</em></strong>"When the unthinkable happens, no one can make things right in Joyce's life. Her best option? To run away. As she finds her voice and true freedom, her wit and unique view will make you LOL - well when you aren't crying." - <strong><em>Girls' Life Magazine</em></strong>"Joyce is a well-drawn protagonist who never stops trying to make things right, and some readers will respond to her emotional turmoil of pain, sadness, and hope" - <strong><em>Booklist</em></strong>". "<i>Jelly Bean Summer</i>" is a thoroughly delightful and entertaining read that is especially recommended forl³È