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THE BOY ON THE PORCH by Sharon Creech


copyright date:  September 2013
primarily marketed for:   middle grades (3rd to 7th)

One day John and Marta find a young boy fast asleep on their porch.  Should they wake him?  No, he looks like he needs the sleep.  They decide to wait.  As they wait, their curiosity grows.  However, when he finally awakens, they discover the boy does not speak and the only information they can get is from a note that was left alongside him. 

In Sharon Creech’s charming story of The Boy on the Porch, it turns out the main character is not really the boy at all, but instead the role is shared by the selfless caretakers, John and Marta.  Although they are unlikely and unexpected parents, their ability to open their minds and hearts proves to reach far beyond the simple needs of the boy on the porch.     

This simple twist on the age old tale of a baby left in a basket on a doorstep is really a story about what it means to be a family.  Although it is one of those books meant for younger readers, I think there is depth enough for even the wisest reader.  Reading The Boy on the Porch brought me all the warmth and security of a bear hug.  I have a feeling it will do the same for you.
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