This novel from Laurel Snyder is magic. It's a book with many questions, and no answers. Lyrical writing & whimsical storytelling takes readers on Jinny's journey into adolescence in one of the most honest yet unique ways I have encountered in literature. It's an emotional coming-of-age fable that haunts you long after you finish reading it.
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There are only ever 9 children on the island. Every year, a boat comes through the mist with a new child and takes away the current Elder in exchange. This is Jinny's year as Elder and she begins to question the blind obedience of the orphans, ultimately leaving her to question whether or not she should get in the boat, to be taken away from the only home she has ever known... No one knows where the boat takes you.
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While this emotional tale may be difficult for some more sensitive readers (similarly to Sara Pennypacker's 'Pax'), it is sure to whisk readers into a magical world where they are free to ask difficult questions and feel all kinds of emotions. Recommended for ages 9-13 (ish).
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You can also find another of my reviews for this book over on Common Sense Media