Sent to live with her relatives in New Orleans during the War of 1812, eleven-year-old Elisabet determines to find a smuggler's treasure to ransom her imprisoned father.

Kanani is having a great time raising money to protect the Hawaiian monk seal by shaving ice at the beach. But when Celina who is her best friend, finds another surfing partner, Kanani finds herself alone and lonely.

Caroline's father has just returned when they receive frightening news--British warships are sailing to attack Sackets Harbor. Every grown man, including Papa, has been called to defend the village. Mama and Caroline are left alone to guard Abbott's Shipyard as the battlefront draws ever closer. Caroline knows she must be brave to keep Papa's shipyard safe. But when the battle seems lost, Mama gives her a terrible order: burn the shipyard to the ground....

When Seattle fourth-grader McKenna Brooks' cast comes off she dives back into gymnastics training in hopes of making the competitive team, but after volunteering at a therapeutic horseback riding center, she considers broadening her interests.

In 1812, ten-year-old Caroline becomes frustrated that her friend Rhonda and cousin Lydia are suddenly acting too grown up to enjoy winter fun with her, and her hurt feelings lead to dangerous decisions. Includes historical notes about growing up in the early nineteenth century.