The One Thing You'd Save

If your house were on fire, what one thing would you save? Newbery Medalist Linda Sue Park explores different answers to this provocative question in linked poems that capture the diverse voices of a middle school class. Recipient of four starred reviews!

"[Park's] message is powerful: We don’t need a great blazing tragedy to determine what we hold most precious in our lives; we can define what’s vital through our thoughts and memories, always at hand, in our heads and hearts—safe, where the flames don’t reach."—New York Times Book Review

When a teacher asks her class what one thing they would save in an emergency, some students know the answer right away. Others come to their decisions more slowly. And some change their minds when they hear their classmates’ responses. A lively dialog ignites as the students discover unexpected facets of one another—and themselves.

With her ear for authentic dialog and knowledge of kids’ priorities and emotions, Linda Sue Park brings the varied voices of an inclusive classroom to life through carefully honed, engaging, and instantly accessible verse. Elegantly illustrated with black-and-white by Robert Sae-Heng art throughout.

What makes an ordinary object priceless?

Middle Grade Poetry: Written in a unique sijo-inspired style, these accessible poems are perfect for introducing young readers to verse. Social Emotional Learning: An ideal tool for classroom discussion that encourages students to think about empathy, identity, and what truly matters. Thought-Provoking Question: Follow a class as they debate whether to save a worn-out sweater, a not-yet-autographed baseball program, or a collection of ninety-three tiny china animals. Diverse Perspectives: Meet a full cast of authentic characters whose answers reveal their hidden hopes, fears, and family histories.