National Network for Equitable Library Service

These traditional reads are brimming with spirited characters and positive values—but with a little extra excitement and bite, so hold on to your hats! Written expressly for the middle grade struggling reader, the series does not contain strong language, edgy themes or dysfunctional families. In fact, family is the main theme of these titles. And one particular Latino family is the focus with their uncanny knack for finding humor, hope and colorful personalities—even in unusual circumstances. Written at the lowest reading levels, the 50-page story structure is straightforward and moves the reader through the text quickly and efficiently. Franco was an hour into his morning dive. He swam to the edge of the reef. Something caught his eye. When he swam closer, he gasped. There was a huge ship's mast!