★ “Debut author Mindy Nichols Wendell thoughtfully explores the complexity of human responses to tragedy and grief. . . . Light and Air is both a richly detailed re-creation of a specific period in U.S. history and a timeless portrayal of resilience and compassion during an epidemic.”
—Shelf Awareness, Starred Review
“This beautiful story, set in 1935, underscores parental struggles as well as the power of community and the risks worth taking to save the ones we love.”
—School Library Journal
“[A] well-constructed historical debut. . . Via unflinching depictions of tragedy and strife, richly rendered period detail, and emotionally honest interpretations of parent-child relationships, Wendell builds satisfying suspense as Halle breaks facility rules to help her mother recover and struggles to win her father’s affection.”
—Publishers Weekly
“Readers may select this title seeking information about TB, but they’ll stay for the sweet-as-honey cast of characters.”
—The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“Wendell’s engaging, straightforward narrative makes the story highly accessible, and her portrayal of Halle will resonate with many readers. A satisfying first novel.”
—Booklist
“A vivid work of historical fiction that explores how infectious disease can intersect with daily life.”
—Kirkus Reviews
“The author has given us a children’s story with insight as well as a complex plot and characters. She maintains an emotional tension throughout, yet the book is easy to read. It is not easily forgotten.”
—Historical Novel Society