Miracles on Maple Hill

Gr 3–6—Though Sorensen's family-centered novel was first published in 1956, the father's struggles with the aftereffects of his war duties makes it relevant to contemporary life. Ten-year-old Marly is excited on the drive to Maple Hill, but her father is silent. Her mother is careful to keep things calm when her older brother, Joe, is unwilling to include her in his plans. In an effort to emotionally heal their recently returned dad, the family heads to their great-grandmother's long-neglected farm. Marly connects quickly with neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Chris, who are in the midst of sugaring season. After a summer enjoying nature, Marly finds that both her dad and the farm are reviving, so the family settles in for a school year in the country. Their much-anticipated second sugaring season becomes complicated, however, when Mr. Chris suffers a heart attack. Fortunately, help comes and Marly's dad, now fully recovered, proves he can make syrup like a pro. A dozen well-chosen actors run the gamut of emotions with convincing performances that highlight the realistic and uplifting story.