The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found is a wonderful family narrative for readers in Sri Lanka that highlights community, kindness, and the necessity of caring for others. This is the fourth book in the popular Vanderbeeker series. It takes place in Harlem, New York, and follows the five Vanderbeeker children as they deal with bereavement, friendship, and discovering their purpose. When their neighbor Mr. Jeet gets sick and their friend Orlando loses his home, the kids work together with their usual dedication to fix the problem.
This middle-grade novel is a heartwarming look at values that are important in many cultures, and it will appeal to Sri Lankan kids who love stories about close families and communities. Readers who value community support networks will especially like the themes of helping neighbors in need, honoring elders, and coming up with inventive ways to solve tough challenges. The Vanderbeekers' neighborhood is made up of people from many different cultures, which gives them a chance to see things from different points of view and expand their own.
As the seasons transition from summer to fall, the Vanderbeeker kids go on a journey that deals with difficult issues like illness and homelessness with care and hope. Karina Yan Glaser expertly combines these difficult ideas into a story that is easy for young readers to understand and enjoy. It also encourages empathy and social awareness, which are very important in Sri Lankan schools where character development is just as important as academic success.
Quote
"Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness can have the biggest impact on someone's life."
Reviews
A lovely addition to the Vanderbeeker series that deals with tough issues with grace and hope. The kids' desire to help others shows us that community solidarity may help us get through the toughest times. A great book for families to read and talk about together.
About the Author
Karina Yan Glaser is a Chinese-American writer who lives in Harlem, New York City, with her family. She worked in education and nonprofits before becoming a full-time writer. She writes for Book Riot and cares deeply about reading, rescuing animals, and making sure that children's books include real, varied people.
Product Details
Author: Karina Yan Glaser
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Language: English
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 368
