Book on dealing with diffficult times

[Bethany]

Hello all! My parish is starting back to school Monday from being displaced by Hurricane Katrina. I was wondering if any of you know of a book I can read to my fourth graders that have to do with dealing with a difficult time. I can only think of books like "Bridge to Terabithia" and "Taste of Blackberries" which discuss death and I don't want that. I'm looking for a book where the main character overcomes a difficult time. Any help will be very appreciated.

 

[NJ Teacher]

book

A chapter book where the characters overcome a challenge without death is Earthquake Terror by Peg Kehret. A boy and his physically disabled sister are separated from their parents during an earthquake in California, and they have to persevere to survive. The book has a very happy ending as they are reunited with their parents after several suspenseful challenges. My kids really enjoy it. I also like The Cay by Theodore Taylor or Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell.

 

[Chicago Teacher]

overcoming difficulties

I thought of "Hatchet", but it's been a while since I've read it. It may be too mature for 4th grade.