Chasing Secrets

In Gennifer Choldenko's Newbery Honor-winning novel, set in the vibrant yet tumultuous backdrop of San Francisco in 1900, thirteen-year-old Lizzie Kennedy grapples with her passion for science at Miss Barstow’s exclusive girls' school. Accompanying her physician father on house calls, Lizzie uncovers the city's hidden dark side, marked by secrets and the looming threat of the plague. As tensions rise and distrust spreads, Lizzie forms an unlikely bond with Noah, the son of a Chinese cook, prompting her to confront societal norms and embark on a daring mission to uncover the truth. Rich in humor and historical detail, this medical mystery explores themes of friendship, race, and resilience.