Most of this elegantly designed novel is set on the ocean. The story features two 13‑year‑old cousins, Sophie and Cody, who sail with three uncles and another cousin across the sea to visit Bompie (their grandfather) in England. The alternating voices of Sophie and Cody’s travel logs move the 78‑chapter story quickly. As the novel unfolds, Sophie makes more than one perilous journey. In his own way, so does Cody, and the trip’s dangers change each teenager. Sharon Creech telegraphs her theme while spinning her tale, so that younger, thoughtful readers won’t miss the internal journeys even while the waves are high. Devotees of Creech’s Newbery Award winner Walk Two Moons (HarperCollins, 1994) will be pleased that there’s a new book by this popular author, and that it explores similar thematic territory at an easier level and in a new way. Diaz’s black-and-white artwork decorates the first pages of each chapter. (Ages 11‑14)

Newbery Honor Book * ALA Notable Children's Book

“A beautifully written and imaginatively constructed novel that speaks to the power of survival and the delicacy of grief.” —School Library Journal (starred review)

This acclaimed bestselling Newbery Honor Book from multi-award-winning author Sharon Creech is a classic and moving story of adventure, self-discovery, and one girl's independence.

Thirteen-year-old Sophie hears the sea calling, promising adventure and a chance for discovery as she sets sail for England with her three uncles and two cousins. Sophie’s cousin Cody isn’t so sure he has the strength to prove himself to the crew and to his father.

Through Sophie’s and Cody’s travel logs, we hear stories of the past and the daily challenges of surviving at sea as The Wanderer sails toward its destination—and its passengers search for their places in the world.

“Sophie is a quietly luminous heroine, and readers will rejoice in her voyage.” —BCCB (starred review)

"Like Creech's Walk Two Moons and Chasing Redbird, this intimate novel poetically connects journey with self-discovery.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)