This stirring novel-in-verse based on a true story is an edge-of-your-seat survival tale, an extensively researched work of historical fiction, and an exemplar of the form.
Pair with Andrea Beaty's Ada Twist, Scientist for a terrific session on the trial and error of tinkering and problem-solving. A recommended general purchase.
Humorous details, diverse agents, and a full day's worth of elementary school fieldwork make this an excellent choice for students on the first day of school.