
In this Newbery Medal-winning novel, thirteen-year-old Salamanca Tree Hiddle embarks on an unforgettable cross-country road trip from Ohio to Idaho with her quirky grandparents. To pass the time, Sal entertains them with the dramatic story of her new friend, Phoebe Winterbottom, whose mother mysteriously vanishes. As Phoebe's tale unfolds, it subtly mirrors Sal's own unspoken grief and confusion over her mother's sudden departure. This richly layered narrative explores themes of loss, family bonds, friendship, and self-discovery, culminating in a poignant revelation that helps Sal come to terms with her past. It is a deeply emotional and often humorous journey suitable for middle-grade readers.
After her mother leaves home suddenly, thirteen-year-old Sal and her grandparents take a car trip retracing her mother's route. Along the way, Sal recounts the story of her friend Phoebe, whose mother also left.