Children's Book Review

Sara's Moon
By Kent Holsather
ISBN: 978-09729101-3-2
Review by Heather Froeschl

What do you do when all seems lost? Do you give up or reach a hand out to a friend? In Kent Holsather’s latest book, “Sara’s Moon,” Sara and Henry reach out for dear life, and hold fast to hope. It’s 1909; Sara’s father is a participant in the great New York to Seattle Road Race, when his automobile is thrust off a cliff called Trick Notch. Sara refuses to believe that he is dead, but how will she find him in the wilderness? Alone? This isn’t Sara and Henry’s first adventure, but the dangers involved threaten any sort of a future.

While waiting for the race to end, after 23 days of anticipating the triumphant return of her father, Jacob Flint, Sara and Henry take in the sights at the Alaska Yukon Pacific Exposition. Seeing the “last mountain man” makes Sara somewhat sad and thoughtful. Appalled at the fake Eskimos and the treatment of people who are in the exhibits, Sara convinces Henry to get his palm read instead of seeing more trickery. What is foretold is daunting, but Henry brushes it off as more fair lore. Maybe he should have paid closer attention. The next morning the news makes its way to Sara’s mother, that Jacob Flint has been lost to the treacherous journey. Sara refuses to believe it.

Taking a walk to gain her composure, in the company of dear Henry, Sara finds herself face to face with the mountain man from the fair. Having faith that there was some truth to his tale, she determinedly asks for his help in finding her father whom she is convinced is out there, somewhere, waiting to be rescued. He agrees, seeing a spark in her eyes that he cannot say no to. Henry, of course, cannot let her go with this stranger alone, so at 4 a.m. the next morning, the group sets out to Trick Notch. What they discover along the way, is the amazing and sad history of their companion and guide. Getting through the harrowing journey, facing death and a mad mother bear, the trio finds that reaching out is all that they can do, what they need to do most of all. Will Jacob Flint be found? Will nature have her way, throwing such as cougars, lightning, and fire at her challengers?

“Sara’s Moon” is a touching tale of bravery, moral values, adventure, family and friendship. Well written and full of historical feel, it makes for a memorable read. For ages 10 and up, reading about Sara and Henry’s escapades is sure to be exciting. I recommend Kent Holsather’s work, every time. A perfect follow up story to the first Sara and Henry tale, “Henry of York,” “Sara’s Moon” can also stand alone. Well done!