Only If You Can Find Me

by Patricia Laurel

Nine-year-old Samantha Plum, born and raised in San Francisco, crosses the Pacific to the Philippines, land of her ancestors. On the way, she meets Solo, the magical Hawaiian, who becomes one of her mentors. In the Philippines, she finds a very different world and meets the spirit of her ancestor Lolo Ciano, brother of the national hero Jose Rizal. She and her family are threatened by the spell of a vengeful duwende and the schemes of an evil cousin. Lolo Ciano, Solo and his aumakua the tiger shark help Sammy learn who she is, so she can save herself and her family. Only if You Can Find Me is based on the life of the author's niece who was diagnosed with autism after returning from a trip to the Philippines. A wise Chinese man said the little girl's mind was taken by a creature of the earth who lived in the jungle.

Genres: Fantasy, Family, Childrens, Young Adult

310 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Segunda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was forced to read this because it was a requirement for my school assignments. And I personally hate it when other people force me to do something, but I was left with no other choice but to read it or else my grade would go down the hill.

Out of all the books that people made me read, this is so far the best one. I aced my quiz, and I even read it again because of how fascinating the story is.

The story gives a lot of lessons; Like the greedy Jenny who only thought of herself. That the “makasalanan” will succeed at first but in the end, they will get what they finally deserve.

The story also tells you to be brave on your journey, kids will need to focus on the character traits when reading this, and compare them to themselves.

This is a must read!!

[Roselee · Rating 3 out of 5]

getting to know my husband's filipino side, as i already know too many superstition beside that good story.

[Athena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Izzzzzz okay. :>

[Jody · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good middle grade book with a bicultural educational backstory. I would say the back story is stronger than the actual story.

[Chuchu]

:)