The Wanderer - by Sharon Creech

Watch out for seasickness! This is the story of young Sophie, two of her older boy cousins, and three of her uncles, all of whom sail a small boat across the Atlantic Ocean from the U.S. to England. Along the way, they learn quite a bit about one another and themselves. This is a voyage of discovery, of adventure, and a quest for things the characters don't even realize they are looking for until they've found them.

Sharon Creech loves to try different formats in her books, and this is no exception. Each chapter is either a fictional diary entry by Sophie (the girl) or her cousin Cody. This style helps us to get a better sense for what the characters are really like, not just from their own point of view. This story is more about self-discovery and understanding other people than it is about sailing, though it will interest people who like both topics. It really is a well-written, captivating story, hard to put down, and easy to recommend. This tale will appeal to readers who like to think a little as they read, and not just go along for the adventure, and will interest both boys and girls.