The Sorta Sisters

December 1, 2007
Gr 4-8-This third book in Fogelin's "neighborhood" series can stand alone, and the ending makes it clear that this enjoyable saga will continue. Mica, 11, is living with her marine-biologist father on a boat in the Florida Keys when she begins to exchange letters with 12-year-old Anna, who lives in Tallahassee with her latest foster mom, science teacher Miss Johnette. The correspondence was suggested by a mutual friend, Ben, whose family visited the marina where Mica lives, and who felt that the girls shared much in common. The pen pals, who sign many of their letters "Your (sorta) sister," form a friendship that sustains them through unsettling times. Anna has been bounced around between friends and family since she was two. She hopes to be adopted by Miss Johnette, yet struggles with the budding romance between her "almost mom" and clumsy Mr. Webster. Mica is nervous about starting regular school for the first time (she has been homeschooled) and is troubled by her father's alcoholic binges. Because of the girls' love of nature, each letter contains a specimen native to the sender's environment, along with its background, Latin name, and an accurate pencil-and-ink illustration."D. Maria LaRocco, Cuyahoga Public Library, Strongsville, OH"

Copyright 2007 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2008
With insight and compassion, Fogelin explores the complexities and rewards of friendship and family. Twelve-year-old foster child Anna, a quiet loner, hopes shes finally found a home in Tallahassee with biology teacher Miss Johnette. Outspoken 11-year-old Mica lives on a sailboat in the Keys with her increasingly absent father, a marine biologist. The girls, both nature lovers, become pen pals and sorta sisters, as they exchange letters, shells, milkweed seeds, and support on issues such as how to fit in at school and Micas fathers alcoholism. Ultimately, through their shared joys and difficulties, both girls find new strength and understanding. The lively, third-person narrative alternates between each girls perspective, and the frequently inserted letters bring intimacy and depth to the characters. Lovely sepia drawings by the author depict wildlife and the packages that the girls send to each other throughout the novel. A heartfelt story that shows the many factors that create family, friends, and home.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2008, American Library Association.)