Loretta Ellsworth

A runaway seeks Harper Lee for answers

Sometimes the things that need to be discovered aren’t so easily found at home. Erin is certain that this is true in her case. A book is all that connects Erin to her mother, who died when she was a baby. But how much can Erin really learn about her mother from a tattered copy of To Kill a Mockingbird? On the eve of her sixteenth birthday, Erin decides it’s finally time to find out. And so begins her bus journey from Minnesota to Alabama in search of Harper Lee, the reclusive author of Mockingbird.

In a novel full of quirky characters, strange coincidences, and on-the-road adventures, Loretta Ellsworth deftly traces a unique voyage of self-discovery.


		In Search of Mockingbird Loretta Ellsworth Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) 192 pages Size: 5 x 8 $16.95 Hardcover Young Adult Fiction Middle Grade Fiction Henry Holt and Co. Pub Year : 04/2007 ISBN: 0-8050-7236-5
	A runaway seeks Harper Lee for answers Sometimes the things that need to be discovered aren’t so easily found at home. Erin is certain that this is true in her case. A book is all that connects Erin to her mother, who died when she was a baby. But how much can Erin really learn about her mother from a tattered copy of To Kill a Mockingbird? On the eve of her sixteenth birthday, Erin decides it’s finally time to find out. And so begins her bus journey from Minnesota to Alabama in search of Harper Lee, the reclusive author of Mockingbird. In a novel full of quirky characters, strange coincidences, and on-the-road adventures, Loretta Ellsworth deftly traces a unique voyage of self-discovery.
	Recommendations: Midwest Connections - Pick for Spring & Summer
	Reviews: Kirkus Reviews -“With a first-person narrative that is eloquent and credible, and prose that is restrained and economical, the story's searching-for-mother theme should make it especially appealing to older fans of Kate DiCamillo's Because of Winn Dixie (2000) and Phyllis Reynolds Naylor's Alice Books. An engaging road trip.” Ellen Scott, The Bookworm, Omaha, NE -“Erin's bus journey of self-discovery rolls through miles of America's Heartland and down her own emotional road as she searches for connection with her long-dead mother, her family, and herself. A familiar theme, but this little book's quiet freshness, humor, and affection for Erin and her bus companions make it special and memorable. A great book club choice for thoughtful young readers and aspiring young writers.” Voya -“The strength of Ellsworth’s novel lies in its quiet plot and Erin’s introspection. Erin proves that her journey is more important than her destination.” Marge Grutzmacher, Passtimes Books, Sister Bay, WI -“A remarkable read, featuring some of the best and crispest dialogue I have encountered in a long time. This is a book for all ages, not just the young adult market. Anyone who has read TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD will consider this book a gift to be treasured. Loretta Ellsworth has told a story that resonates wisdom in its simplicity. I didn’t want it to end.”