"Althoughset in faraway Sri Lanka, Fullerton's rhythmic tale holds a universal message:that even the smallest and youngest among us can summon up the courage to face,and overcome, the most gargantuan challenges."--Kirkus ★ Starred Review

Itis time to plant the rice crop in Malini's Sri Lankan community, and the littlegirl is both excited and nervous to help for the first time. What if she doesit wrong? Will she be responsible if the crop fails? When the oxcart rumbles inloaded with seedlings, she reluctantly agrees to watch the big, imposing animalwhile the driver takes a break. Suddenly, the skies go dark with monsoon rain.A flash flood pours down the road, separating Malini from the driver and herfamily. They are shouting for her to run for higher ground, but what about therice? Summoning courage she never dreamed she possessed, Malini resolves tosave ox, cart, and seedlings, no matter what it takes.

Award-winningauthor Alma Fullerton tells Malini's story in expressive free verse thatvibrates with emotion and energy. The moods of Sri Lanka's rainy season comealive as Kim La Fave, illustrator of the award-winning Shin Chi's Canoe, uses a fresh style that is both contemporary andimpressionistic to depict the courage of one little girl facing the power of amonsoon.

"A powerful portrait of a child's bravery and perseverance."--TheHorn Book Magazine

"La Fave's richly colored illustrations dramaticallyand effectively convey the contrast between the calm, sunny day and theintensity of the storm."--School Library Journal