My Own Lightning

Set in rural Pennsylvania during World War II, My Own Lightning continues the story of Annabelle McBride from Wolf Hollow. After being struck by lightning, Annabelle discovers she has a new ability to sense and understand the pain of others, including animals. With German POWs working nearby farms and the war's shadow hanging over the community, Annabelle navigates complex relationships at home and in town. She forms an unexpected bond with a German teenager named Finn and works to help injured animals alongside a local veterinarian. The story explores forgiveness, healing, and the connections between humans and animals in times of hardship. Through Annabelle's experiences, the novel examines how people face their fears and overcome prejudices during periods of conflict and change.

Readers note this sequel captures the same tone and character depth as Wolf Hollow while standing as its own story. Many appreciate how the book handles complex themes of forgiveness and prejudice through the lens of 12-year-old Annabelle. What readers liked: - Character development, especially Annabelle's growth - Authentic portrayal of 1940s rural Pennsylvania - Integration of themes about healing and understanding - Natural inclusion of dogs and their training What readers disliked: - Slower pacing compared to Wolf Hollow - Less dramatic tension than the first book - Some felt the ending wrapped up too neatly Ratings: Goodreads: 4.25/5 (1,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (150+ ratings) BookPage: 5/5 "The character work is incredible - you feel every emotion alongside Annabelle," noted one Goodreads reviewer. Another Amazon reader commented, "It tackles difficult subjects with grace while remaining appropriate for young readers."

Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk A young girl in rural Pennsylvania during World War II confronts injustice and prejudice while learning about human nature through her encounters with a troubled veteran.

Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson Two friends create a secret magical forest kingdom where they process grief, loss, and the complexities of growing up in rural America.

The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin A seventh-grade girl turns to scientific research about jellyfish as she works through the death of her former best friend and comes to terms with change.

One for the Murphys by Lynda Mullaly Hunt A foster child finds her place in a new family while dealing with trust issues and the shadows of her past.

The Same Stuff as Stars by Katherine Paterson An eleven-year-old girl must care for her younger brother when abandoned by their mother, finding solace in astronomy and unexpected friendships.

⚡ During World War II (the time period of the book), lightning strikes killed around 400 Americans annually, making it one of the leading weather-related causes of death. 🏆 Author Lauren Wolk's previous book, Wolf Hollow, won a Newbery Honor in 2017 and established several characters that return in My Own Lightning. 🌟 The novel explores the real phenomenon of lightning strike survivors developing unusual abilities or altered perceptions, which has been documented in medical literature. 🐾 The book features detailed descriptions of dog training techniques from the 1940s, when methods were beginning to shift from purely disciplinary to more reward-based approaches. 🎨 Lauren Wolk is not only an author but also an award-winning poet and visual artist, which influences her vivid descriptive writing style and attention to sensory details throughout the novel.