Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink

Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink, 242 pages

Caddie Woodlawn is an 11-year-old girl who is brave, whip smart, and has a big, caring heart. Living in the wilds of Wisconsin, Caddie spends her days roaming with her brothers and her trusty dog Nero. Much to the consternation of her mother, Caddie would rather spend all day in the sun picking berries, befriending Indians, and fixing pocket watches than practice being a lady. But the year passes with its triumphs and tragedies, leaving Caddie to realize that change--and growing up--isn't so bad. 

Caddie Woodlawn was a great favorite of mine as a kid, and after I picked up a copy at the STL book fair, I had a wonderfully nostalgic pioneer vacation. The Little House series gets a lot of love, but I prefer Caddie Woodlawn. 

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne, 215 pages

Nine-year-old Bruno is abruptly ripped from the beautiful life he knows in Berlin: away from the fruit stalls, his best friends for life, and his beloved grandmother.  Now Bruno is stuck in a boring house with no friends.  One day while exploring, Bruno meets a boy in striped pajamas who lives behind a fence. The friendship between the boys grows until the tensions at Bruno's house hit a boiling point, and soon Bruno is told he's going back to his old home. That's when Bruno decides to cross the fence for one last adventure with his new friend. 

 

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, 137 pages

From the MARC: "In 1943, during the German occupation of Denmark, ten-year-old Annemarie learns how to be brave and courageous when she helps shelter her Jewish friend from the Nazis."

I didn't read this book as a kid, but I wish I had. I really liked how Annemarie learns that courage isn't the absence of fear, but is doing what's right even when you are afraid.