The Summer We Found the Baby by Amy Hest; Candlewick Press; © 2020; ISBN 9781536-225990; 181 pages; PJ Our Way.
By Cailin Acosta in La Mesa, California
Set during World War II, the story begins with older brother Benjamin Ben-Eli serving overseas as a soldier. His younger brother, Bruno, is supposed to catch the train from Long Island to New York City on an important errand for Benjamin.
Instead, Bruno notices his friend Julie and his younger sister Martha carrying a baby in a basket. Curious, he follows them rather than boarding the train. Earlier that morning, the baby had been left on the steps of the Belle Beach Library during the dedication of the new children’s library.
Julie and Martha quickly begin discussing what to do with the baby. Before long, they give her a name and imagine that they now have a baby sister. When they make their way to the beach, they unexpectedly meet Eleanor Roosevelt, who invites them to join her picnic and helps comfort the baby. Since Roosevelt is attending the library dedication, her driver later brings the children safely back.
The mystery of the baby is soon solved when a note tucked beneath her blanket reveals that she is Emmie Ben-Eli, the granddaughter of Mrs. Ben-Eli and the daughter of Benjamin and Tess Ben-Eli.
With the mystery solved, everyone happily embraces their new roles as aunt, uncle, and grandparents.
This middle school–age novel beautifully showcases the many voices of its characters and the summer that changed everything for this family. It was heartwarming to read how the community came together to help care for the baby, while also highlighting the importance of supporting literacy and libraries.
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Cailin Acosta is the assistant editor of the San Diego Jewish World.