The Loss of the Burying Ground by J Anderson Coats - OPTIONAL

The Loss of the Burying Ground by J Anderson Coats, 288 pages. Candlewick, 2024. $19

Language: PG (24 swears, 0 ‘f’); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (mild danger)

BUYING ADVISORY: HS - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

When the Burying Ground ship goes down, so do the hopes of two nations to forge peace. The only survivors are Vivienne, the lady’s maid to the princess of Ariminthia, and Cora, the daughter of a reporter who was randomly picked to join the voyage. When the two girls discover each other, sparks fly and they reluctantly work together when pirates are attracted by Cora’s signals, instead of the rescue she was hoping for.

There are more complications in the narrative, but I don’t want to give too much away. Suffice it to say the best parts of the book are when the girls are on the island, not caught up in the political drama on land. Looks to be the first in a series, as we are left hanging. I am mystified by the name of the boat - I found it off-putting.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS