“Although
set in faraway Sri Lanka, Fullerton’s rhythmic tale holds a universal message:
that even the smallest and youngest among us can summon up the courage to face,
and overcome, the most gargantuan challenges.”—Kirkus★ Starred Review
It
is time to plant the rice crop in Malini’s Sri Lankan community, and the little
girl is both excited and nervous to help for the first time. What if she does
it wrong? Will she be responsible if the crop fails? When the oxcart rumbles in
loaded with seedlings, she reluctantly agrees to watch the big, imposing animal
while the driver takes a break. Suddenly, the skies go dark with monsoon rain.
A flash flood pours down the road, separating Malini from the driver and her
family. They are shouting for her to run for higher ground, but what about the
rice? Summoning courage
