I just finished reading the 2007 Newbery Medal book entitled The Higher Power of Lucky by Susan Patron. I loved loved loved this book! Susan Patron developed such a colorful, creative, and charming character in Lucky. By the end of the first chapter, I was already developing a love for Lucky. :)
The Higher Power of Lucky is about a 10 year old girl from the very small town of Hard Pan, California. Lucky lost her mother in a terrible freak accident and is now being raised by her father's first wife Brigitte, who is contemplating returning to her homeland of France. Since her father isn't around and Brigitte might go home to France, Lucky is afraid she will end up in a foster home or worse. As I read this book, I followed Lucky on the search for her own "higher power" as she struggled being left, leaving wonderful friends, and the highs and lows in her young life.
I highly recommend this book...I truly believe you will love it as I did!