Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt
Many of you are probably familiar with this book, as it's a classic that's been around for decades. I was introduced to it when in middle school when it was part of our reading curriculum. This book was important to me because it helped broaden my taste in reading. Prior to this book, I was mostly into science fiction and fantasy. I adore this book, because it is a ground and harrowing adventure, and the main character, Dicey, is a strong female character.
Homecoming is the beginning of a series, but you could just enjoy this book and it would not be necessary to read the rest. I think I read the sequel, Dicey's Song, years ago, and I would be curious to see where the story goes through the rest of the novels.
The story follows Dicey and her siblings, who are abandoned by their mother at a shopping mall in Connecticut when the story begins. Dicey is 13, and works to keep her siblings safe, fed, and together as they're journey to find a new home.
I recently found this copy at a thrift store. It's a 1st edition former library copy, and I had to repair the binding, but otherwise it's in good shape. I'm looking forward to reading this story to my own daughter.