One Day and One Amazing Morning on Orange Street

By Joanne Rocklin

A mysterious man and an old tree reveal hidden connections on Orange Street.

3.7/5 Goodreads · 805 ratings

240 pages· 33,015 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

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Bookroo's summary

A mysterious man arrives on Orange Street, sparking curiosity among the local children. As they investigate, they uncover unexpected links between their personal struggles and an ancient orange tree. From family dynamics to friendships, their intertwined stories unfold over a day and a half, revealing the magic and history woven into their community. Will the fate of the tree and their newfound connections change their lives forever?

"It was a hot summer day on Orange Street, one of those days that seem ordinary until you look back on it."

— from the book

From the publisher

When a mysterious man arrives one day on Orange Street, the children who live on the block try to find out who he is and why he’s there. Little do they know that his story–and the story of a very old orange tree–connects to each of their personal worries in ways they never could have imagined. From impressing friends to dealing with an expanding family to understanding a younger sibling’s illness, the characters’ story lines come together around that orange tree.

Taking place over the course of a day and a half, Joanne Rocklin’s masterful novel deftly builds a story about family, community, and the importance of connection. In the end the fate of the tree (and of the kids who care for it) reminds us of the magic of the everyday and of the rich history all around us.

At a glance

Format: Paperback
Pages: 240
Words: 33,015
Reading age: 8–11
Audience: Middle Grade
Lexile: 830L

Themes & topics

Books about neighborhoods Books about family Books about illness Books about friendship Books about family life

For the grown-ups

The parent guide

What families may want to know

Every family reads differently. These are the concepts our editors noticed in this book — worth seeking out for some readers, worth knowing about for others. The list isn't exhaustive, but it's a spoiler-light head start.

Violence

The death of one character's father is mentioned. He is killed during the Vietnam War by a booby trap. It is not described in detail. An older resident of Orange Street often calls the police to report a murder; but the "murder" being reported is of a tree or plant.

After the last page

Talk about it together

Several of the characters in the story have fears that at times overwhelm them: for Bunny it’s her mom traveling for work; for Ali it’s her brother’s illness; and for Leandra it’s her mom’s pregnancy. What do you think it is about each girl and their specific worries that causes such concern? What are some of the things that happen in the book to help them overcome these apprehensions?

The orange tree lot holds a great deal of meaning for the residents of Orange Street. Do you have a place in your community that is special to you? If so, what is it and why is it special? What would you do if there was a possibility it could be taken away from you?

Inside the book

A peek between the covers

Here’s the orange tree that was the inspiration for my book. The birdhouse looks like my husband, Gerry.

What readers & critics say

Reviews

“Fully realized characters and setting definitely make this one morning on Orange Street amazing.”

Kirkus

Critic · Starred review

“Realistic, evocative novel, which features a warm and believable community of adults and children . . . culminating in a confrontation that resolves several mysteries and brings out the best in everyone.”

Publisher's Weekly

Critic

“Fascinating and thought-provoking, the writing has a gentle cadence, richness in detail, and is charged with emotion. The book, like the oranges on the Orange Street tree, presents segments of life that are both sweet and tart and sure to satisfy.”

School Library Journal

Critic · Starred review

For readers who can't stop at one