The One Thing You'd Save

Written by Linda Sue Park · Illustrated by Robert Sae-Heng

What would you save if your house was on fire? Discover unexpected truths in a classroom's lively debate.

3.9 Goodreads · 5,120 ratings

72 pages· 2,992 words· Est. 25 min read· 720L

$16.99Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

In a middle school classroom, a teacher poses a simple yet profound question: if your house were on fire, what would you save? As students grapple with their answers, some are decisive, while others waver, influenced by their peers' revelations. Through engaging verse, the students uncover surprising insights about themselves and each other, sparking a dialogue that reveals hidden priorities and emotions. This exploration of what truly matters challenges them to reflect on their values and connections, igniting a journey of self-discovery and empathy.

From the publisher

If your house were on fire, what one thing would you save? Newbery Medalist Linda Sue Park explores different answers to this provocative question in linked poems that capture the diverse voices of a middle school class. Illustrated with black-and-white art.

When a teacher asks her class what one thing they would save in an emergency, some students know the answer right away. Others come to their decisions more slowly. And some change their minds when they hear their classmates’ responses. A lively dialog ignites as the students discover unexpected facets of one another–and themselves. With her ear for authentic dialog and knowledge of tweens’ priorities and emotions, Linda Sue Park brings the varied voices of an inclusive classroom to life through carefully honed, engaging, and instantly accessible verse.

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