Jones, Kari

In 1979, Astrid and her family struggle to adjust to life in Ghana, where her father is helping with the country's first democratic election, and where political upheaval has put them at risk.

Fourteen-year-old Maya uses her kayaking skills to save a family of sea otters from poachers.

Cody and his sister Ellen have to solve the mystery of the hidden treasure if they want to save the island lighthouse they call home.

A mysterious stranger visits the island where Simon and his sister Ellen live, bringing with him an unexpected storm and a riddle that may lead to treasure.

"... looks at trade from the perspective of making it fair for all people."--Provided by publisher.

"Twelve-year-old Astrid has come to Ghana with her family in 1979 so that her father can help oversee Ghana's first democratic election. Astrid and her brother, Gordo, were told it would be a great family adventure, but they soon find out that everything about Ghana is difficult$1 (Bthe heat, the food, the threat of disease, the soldiers on the roads, the schools. Gordo fits in more easily than Astrid, who is often left to look after her baby sister, Piper, as their mother begins to fall apart under the strain of living in Ghana. When the government is overthrown, Gordo comes down with malaria and a soldier threatens her family, Astrid is surprised to discover how protective she has become of her new home"--.

Lila has always wanted a career in belly dance, so she is thrilled when she is invited to join Dana Sajala's competitive and prestigious studio. But dancing at the new studio isn't quite what she expected.

Ghana, 1979: Unlike in Canada, Astrid, twelve, must monitor her younger siblings and never go out alone. Astrid scorns her mom's paranoia--until a coup makes her reassess. Includes historical note.

Fourteen-year-old Maya uses her kayaking skills to save a family of sea otters from poachers.