Wildoak

Wildoak is a gorgeously written novel that is sure to become a family favorite whether your middle grader is reading on their own or whether a parent is reading aloud. Kids will love the friendship between Maggie and Rumpus, and they will also root for Maggie as she slowly gains the confidence and bravery to finally speak up. I loved that Harrington chose to keep honest portrayals of some of the book's challenges. She did not sugarcoat the dangers of befriending a baby leopard, nor did she magically make Maggie's stutter go away. The story moves quickly enough for readers to keep wanting to turn the page and slowly enough for readers to stop, ponder and enjoy skillfully crafted descriptions and moments of depth. A must-have for any middle-grade reader and for any middle-grade library or classroom shelf.

I could not put this one down. What was happening to both main characters in the beginning chapters was heart rending. Watching them come together and Maggie’s efforts finally giving her a ‘voice’ was riveting. I loved this book and will be recommending it to all my teacher friends for their classroom read aloud sessions.

A lovely book, plus, it kept me on the edge of my seat! Reads like a classic.

Couldn't put down this book! Bought it for my eight year old son (who loves it) and I stayed up late to finish it. Beautiful story of a girl and snow leopard whose paths cross; both are trying to find their places in this world. It's about connecting with nature, speaking up for those who can't, and embracing who you are. "Be gentle with yourself. It is hard to be human." This book stays with you long after you've turned the last page. Highly recommend!!!

It’s rare to find a book that enthralls all my kids (ages 9, 11, 13, and 15) as well as me and my husband! We’ve fought over this book in our house, until I finally caved and got an additional copy. This is SUCH a great read … exquisitely written with a plot that fully enraptures the reader. There are so many wonderful messages about kindness and compassion conveyed as well. I highly recommend Wildoak as a book your whole family will love.

This is an extraordinary tale written by a gifted author. I am 73 mother of four and was pulled in from page one. My grandchildren have all read it and loved it. It crosses all age groups, and touches the heart of anyone who has had a special needs child. Stuttering is a painful affliction, and this sweet book addresses it in the most beautiful fashion. Kudos to CC Harrington

This is one of the absolute best books I have ever read! It is not only a great read for children but for adults alswell! This book truly shows us the power of listening. My niece Monica cried when she finished it because she didn't want it to end. Thank you C.C. This book will change the world. I could not recommend it more highly.

I loved this book. A resilient main character, an interesting and unique plot, and wonderfully written.

This book is so enthralling and so very moving that as an adult I could not put it down and I was taken back to child hood days of reading books filled with stories encompassing nature and adventure.This book spoke to me on so many levels, what if we stopped looking at things as broken and actually paused to let their story be heard? What if we all stopped and listened to the messages held within our ancient trees and woodland floors? What if we actually stopped and saw the beauty and courage in each other as ‘being human is hard’.The writing is evocatively descriptive and you can feel the scenes in the book sizzle into an atmospheric awe around you. I wish I could sit in the old Oak Tree in Wild Oak and I’m making it my mission to find my own oak tree, take my shoes off, climb it’s branches and be held in its arms as I listen for it’s wisdom and warmth.A beautiful story of courage, friendship, trust and finding your voice.

I liked the connection between the snow leopard and the girl. They were both unable to speak for themselves. The ending was heartwarming. There was nothing I didn’t like about this book.