The Cursed Ground (Zora and Me #2) by T.R. Simon
Published by Candlewick Press (MA) on September 11th 2018
ISBN: 0763643017
Pages: 272
Goodreads

Although a sequel to Zora & Me this second book is able to stands alone.   Simon presents readers with two spunky and inquisitive children who live in the first incorporated black township in the USA.  As a historic fiction this is a revealing book about the time following slavery in the south.   It is however the adventures of Carrie and Zora that bring the story to life.   We see their community through their eyes devoid of any rose colored glasses.  Zora & Me: The Cursed Ground will send chills up the spine of readers as he/she begins to comprehend the silence and violence touched upon by excellent characters.  Interaction between the individuals makes the book come alive, adults like Mr. Polk and Old Lady Bronson add intrigue to the adventure.

Place this book in middle school media centers and public libraries.  Any library purchasing this book should consider ordering the first book as well but it is not a necessary purchase.

Consider for Cream

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired children’s services librarian in Scarborough, ME