The powerful novel by Nobel Prize-winning author Pearl S. Buck, about two friends who must face the pain of losing everything&;and how to face their grief with courage. This chapter book is an excellent choice to share during homeschooling, in particular for children ages 7 to 9 who are reading independently. It&;s a fun way to keep your child engaged and as a supplement for activity books for children.

Kino lives on a farm on the side of a mountain in Japan. His friend, Jiya, lives in a fishing village below. Everyone, including Kino and Jiya, has heard of the big wave. No one suspects it will wash over them, until the rushing water sweeps away the whole village&;including Jiya's family.

As Jiya struggles to overcome his sorrow, with the help of Kino and his father, he comes to understand that it is only in the presence of danger that one learns to be brave, and that even in the face of terrible tragedy, life and love are stronger than death.