Thundering Courage...

 

It's 1923 and Tom has been an orphan for the past ten years. He's been dreaming of being part of a family and having a dog.  Because he's thirteen years old, he is sent to live and work for Enoch and Fiona Murray in Newfoundland. Back o’ the Moon Island is small and everyone knows each other, which can be good and bad.  Enoch is a fisherman, and Tom is going to learn to help him with his trade. On his first fishing trip, there is a storm and Tom ends up rescuing a Newfoundland dog, who he decides to name Thunder. Unfortunately, another family from the island wants Thunder. When they find out they can’t have him, they decide to get even by tracking down Thunder’s owner.  Sadly, they will go to any length to get Thunder, and the dog suffers an injury from their selfishness. When news comes that Fiona is pregnant, Tom worries about his place with the Murrays. Will they still want him? Will Thunder’s owner be found? Can Tom fight back his fears when Fiona needs him most? Travel with Tom and Thunder to discover what bravery and determination can do.

Thunder from the Sea by Joan Hiatt Harlow is a touching historical fiction book about a boy, a dog, and a family who will capture your heart. Tom is a character that I could really connect with, and I feel as if I know him. I felt sad for him that he was an orphan, and I worried about what would become of both he and Thunder. This is an excellent book for people of all ages, and I think kids in fourth through eighth grade will especially relate to Tom and Thunder. The book gave me a peek at what life was like for people in the fishing and farming industries during the 1920s. We get to see a typical family in Newfoundland struggling to make ends meet and working towards their dreams. I found myself hoping that good things would come their way and was impressed with their perseverance. I think Tom would be a wonderful friend because he is kind and hard working. I like that he doesn’t back down to people trying to bully him. If you have not read this book yet, I recommend it. You will enjoy seeing how important our relationship with animals is, and you will see how courage can make a difference!

Has anyone else read Thunder from the Sea by Joan Hiatt Harlow? Or have you read another book by Joan Hiatt Harlow?  I would love to hear your thoughts!

Happy Reading! ~L