Being an eleven-year-old is tough, between dealing with bullies and failing to live up to other’s expectations. But Jack Clark is also facing even greater challenges as he and his family struggle to survive in 1937 Kansas during the Dust Bowl. With one sister sick from the dust and another he can barely keep out of trouble, Jack struggles to be strong for his family and yet hold onto the last fragments of his childhood. With the town fighting to survive and praying for rain, Jack comes face to face with the cause of their severe drought. But is there such a thing as the Storm King? Or has the dust gotten to him as well?
This striking graphic novel of little color and few words beautifully illustrates the role that tweens must play of being in between—in between the world of what is real and what is not, growing up and being a kid, and doing what you are told and following your heart. The story also perfectly melds images of tall tales with a historical thriller, making Jack’s character even more dynamic and unique. For Jack may be living in desperate times, but it is his choice to face adversity and be a hero that makes this story timeless.
