THE TURTLE OF MICHIGAN

Peter Ganim adds further zest to this appealing sequel to THE TURTLE OF OMAN. Eight-year-old Aref and his family move to Ann Arbor, Michigan, from Oman. Listeners observe his parents devoting much attention to their university classes while bored Aref misses his grandfather, former home, and precious wild turtles. Things improve after he attends a summer art camp, meets fellow classmates, and welcomes neighbors, including Honeybun, a guide dog for the blind. Ganim's endearing Aref is caring and intelligent; he comes to love his new home, even the snow. Glimpses of family life add intimacy to the story. Learning from Aref's situation should lessen the sadness of change, particularly homesickness, for listeners of all ages. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2022]