4.3
Part of "Bluford High" series
"A Matter of Trust" by Anne Schraff is a young adult novel that explores themes of trust, loyalty, and the challenges of adolescence. The story centers around fifteen-year-old Casey, who is struggling to come to terms with her parents' recent divorce. When her mother starts dating a man named Mark, Casey is hesitant to accept him into her life. However, as she gets to know Mark better, she begins to trust him and even sees him as a father figure. But just as Casey is starting to feel comfortable with Mark, she discovers a secret that threatens to destroy everything. Mark has a criminal past, and Casey is torn between her loyalty to her mother and her own sense of right and wrong. Schraff does an excellent job of capturing the emotional turmoil that teenagers experience during times of upheaval. Casey's character is well-developed, and readers will empathize with her struggles as she navigates the complexities of her family situation. The novel also raises important questions about trust and forgiveness, challenging readers to consider the nuances of these concepts. One of the strengths of "A Matter of Trust" is its authentic portrayal of the challenges that teenagers face. Schraff doesn't shy away from difficult topics, and she handles them with sensitivity and grace. The novel is a great choice for young adults who are looking for a relatable and thought-provoking story. Overall, "A Matter of Trust" is a compelling and engaging novel that will resonate with readers of all ages. Its complex characters, thought-provoking themes, and authentic portrayal of the teenage experience make it a standout addition to any young adult library...
Katherine Paterson
Bridge To Terabithia
This Newberry Medal-winning novel, like 'A Matter of Trust', delves into the complexities of friendship and the importance of trust. The story follows two fifth-graders, Jesse Aarons and Leslie Burke, who create a imaginary kingdom in the woods called Terabithia, where they rule as king and queen, and face challenges together.
Learn MorePam Muñoz Ryan
Esperanza Rising
This historical novel, like 'A Matter of Trust', follows the main character, Esperanza, as she learns the importance of trust and resilience. After her family's ranch is seized during the Great Depression, Esperanza and her mother are forced to leave their home in Mexico and start a new life as migrant workers in California.
Learn MoreMildred D. Taylor
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
In this classic novel, similar to 'A Matter of Trust', the main character, Cassie Logan, learns the importance of standing up for what is right and trusting in herself and her family. Set in the 1930s, the story follows Cassie and her family as they fight against racism and injustice in their small Mississippi town.
Learn MoreLois Lowry
The Giver
This dystopian novel, like 'A Matter of Trust', explores themes of trust and conformity. The story follows Jonas, a 12-year-old boy who is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory, the person who holds all the memories of the past for the community. As Jonas learns about the true history of his community, he must decide whether to conform or to trust his own beliefs.
Learn MoreKatherine Applegate
The One and Only Ivan
This Newberry Medal-winning novel, like 'A Matter of Trust', tells the story of a gorilla named Ivan who learns the importance of trust and friendship. Held captive in a shopping mall, Ivan befriends a stray dog and a baby elephant, and together they help Ivan to remember his past and to find a way to a better future.
Learn MoreFrances Hodgson Burnett
The Secret Garden
This classic novel, like 'A Matter of Trust', tells the story of a young girl named Mary who learns the importance of trust and friendship as she discovers the secrets of a walled garden on the English moors. Through her journey, Mary learns to trust herself and those around her, and finds solace in the beauty of nature.
Learn MoreEllen Raskin
The Westing Game
This mystery novel, like 'A Matter of Trust', follows a group of strangers who are brought together to solve the puzzle of Samuel W. Westing's death. As they work together to uncover the clues, they learn to trust each other and themselves, and discover that sometimes the most unexpected people can become the most trusted allies.
Learn MoreKate DiCamillo
Because of Winn-Dixie
This heartwarming novel, like 'A Matter of Trust', tells the story of a young girl named India Opal Buloni who learns the importance of trust and friendship when she adopts a stray dog named Winn-Dixie. Through her journey, India Opal learns to trust herself and those around her, and discovers the power of friendship to heal even the deepest wounds.
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