Adams County Reads One Book

"Enger tells the story of eleven-year-old Reuben Land, an asthmatic boy who has reason to believe in miracles. Along with his sister and father, Reuben finds himself on a cross-country search for his outlaw older brother who has been controversially charged with murder. Their journey is touched by serendipity and the kindness of strangers, and its remarkable conclusion shows how family, love, and faith can stand up to the most terrifying of enemies, the most tragic of fates."

"Burgdorf, Germany -- a quiet town, nothing special, just people going about their lives, trying to earn a living. They are uncomfortable, but manage to cope, with things that come along to change the status quo¿newcomers, someone going insane, someone being born "different." Thus we meet Trudi, the main character, who can never be "normal." Trudi is a dwarf and she comes to understand the town, its people, and human nature by how she is treated.

As the book opens, the town is dealing with effects of World War I. But that will come to pale in comparison with what lies just ahead¿the Nazi movement. Hegi gives you a window on the town through Trudi's eyes, and you come to know the place and its people. But slowly you watch the darkness take hold as the infection of fear, blame, and hatred absorbs the town."