The Wanderer

Newbery Honor Book * ALA Notable Children's Book

“A beautifully written and imaginatively constructed novel that speaks to the power of survival and the delicacy of grief.” —School Library Journal (starred review)

This acclaimed bestselling Newbery Honor Book from multi-award-winning author Sharon Creech is a classic and moving story of adventure, self-discovery, and one girl's independence.

Thirteen-year-old Sophie hears the sea calling, promising adventure and a chance for discovery as she sets sail for England with her three uncles and two cousins. Sophie’s cousin Cody isn’t so sure he has the strength to prove himself to the crew and to his father.

Through Sophie’s and Cody’s travel logs, we hear stories of the past and the daily challenges of surviving at sea as The Wanderer sails toward its destination—and its passengers search for their places in the world.

“Sophie is a quietly luminous heroine, and readers will rejoice in her voyage.” —BCCB (starred review)

"Like Creech's Walk Two Moons and Chasing Redbird, this intimate novel poetically connects journey with self-discovery.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

On a journey this long, the ocean isn't the only thing with secrets.

A Gripping Sea Adventure: Follows thirteen-year-old Sophie and her cousins as they sail from America to England aboard The Wanderer, learning to rely on themselves and each other. Dual Journals: Experience the voyage through the eyes of both Sophie and her cousin Cody as their alternating log entries reveal two very different sides of the story. A Powerful Survival Story: The crew's courage is tested as they face treacherous storms, equipment failure, and the immense, unpredictable power of the Atlantic Ocean. Facing the Past: To connect with her family, Sophie tells tales of her grandfather, Bompie, but the biggest story she must confront is the one she can't remember.