The Power of Harmony
KidsBookshelf.comThe Power of HarmonyBy Jan L. CoatesReview By Christina LewisJennifer dreams of becoming a famous singer, but she's terrified to sing in public. When a new girl moves to town... the bullies show their prejudice for Mi'kmaq people and taunt and tease Melody. When Jenn gets to know Melody she discovers that the two have a lot in common. Their friendship gives them both courage to face their fears. A powerful story about unjustified prejudice and disliking someone just because they are different. (Ages 9-12)...  Melody and Jenny ...  are emotivewithout being emotional; kind without gushiness; and clever without being smart-alecky.  It's Jan L. Coates evocative text and careful plotting that elevate the girls to extraordinary while the history of Springhill, Nova Scotia ... the coal mining, the residential school and the prison, ground the story in reality.  The Power of Harmony could have been a cacophony of anger, abuse and prejudice but, with Jan L. Coates' considerate story-telling, it is a sensitive coming of age story ...  (CanLit for Little Canadians, July 7, 2013)Praise for A Hare in the Elephant's Trunk "Inspired by Jacob's true story, Coates writes vividly and poetically, establishing a clear historical context for her inspirational tale."