Jewell Parker Rhodes (A)  

List Price: $7.99 (Paperback – Mystery / Friends – 2016) 

A magical coming-of-age story from Coretta Scott King honor author Jewell Parker Rhodes, rich with Southern folklore, friendship, family, fireflies and mermaids, plus an environmental twist.

It’s city-girl Maddy’s first summer in the bayou, and she just falls in love with her new surroundings – the glimmering fireflies, the glorious landscape, and something else, deep within the water, that only she can see. Could it be a mermaid? As her grandmother shares wisdom about sayings and signs, Maddy realizes she may be the only sibling to carry on her family’s magical legacy. And when a disastrous oil leak threatens the bayou, she knows she may also be the only one who can help. Does she have what it takes to be a hero? Jewell Parker Rhodes weaves a rich tale celebrating the magic within. (272 pgs). Ages 8-12 

• Lexile Measure: 410
• Product Dimensions: 5.2 x 0.8 x 7.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7.2 ounces