Print ISBN: 0807510688

Language: English

JUV005000  –  Juvenile Fiction / Boys & Men

JUV045000  –  Juvenile Fiction / Readers / Chapter Books

Worldwide

When Casey's class begins studying Nomads, he and his best friend Art begin building tents everywhere. They tie their scout neckerchiefs around their heads like Bedouin nomads wearing kaffiyehs. They also prepare to compete in the Scout Olympics. Neither boy is a strong athlete, but Casey's dad is helping him practice for the free-style swimming event. Then Casey's father is called out of town for work. At first, Casey feels angry his dad broke his promise to help Casey. His father is also sad, but can't leave his assignment writing secret codes for the army. Eventually, Casey learns to draw on his own resources, and practices on his own. Finally, with his best friend, funny little sister and the words of a mysterious Apron Lady cheering him on, Casey swims the swim of his life. In the end, his father's job with the army gives Casey's family a chance to travel, to set out on new and exciting adventures across the United States, to become real live nomads.

Casey is fascinated by nomads. The author skillfully interweaves themes of peer pressure, scouting experiences, and family tension. All falls neatly into place at the end, but there are some imaginative twists and turns along the way.

—Christian Science International

This is an interesting book, warmly written, that tugs at the reader's heart. The black and white charcoal illustrations effectively portray the feelings of the story. There isn't any spiritual emphasis, but the family works through their problems in a constructive manner.

—Mennonite Publishing House Book Review

A good choice for "first fiction" for beginning readers. Also, it can be used to highlight a father-son relationship. Recommended for 3-6 grades.

—Book Buzz

Recommended The book has an unusual flair--the first and last pages are "copies" of Casey’s report on nomads for school. His sister and best friend play prominent parts in the story, as do his mother and father. There's a happy ending with the nomad concept.

—Madison Wisconsin - T. Glotz

....The story has a happy ending as the family decides to be modern day nomads. Many children can identify with this story.

—B.J. Standord Lubbock TX

Casey comes of age in resolving the necessary absence of his father from home and assuming responsibility for himself. It is a good story on a contemporary theme.

—Delaware County/Librarians Book Review

...The characterization is solid, the kids sound like kids, and the plot flows naturally.....the author is right on target for her audience. This has the feel of Cleary, or the Hurwitz books about Aldo.

—Bergen County Cooperative Library System

Susan Sussman

Susan Sussman is the author of twenty-two books as well as numerous articles and musicals. She won an EMMY for the screen adaptation of her book THERE'S NO SUCH THING AS A CHANUKAH BUSH, SANDY GOLDSTEIN (now available on DVD) and is currently working on a mystery series set in the courtrooms of south Florida.