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NO VACANCY

Tziporah Cohen

Buying and moving into the run-down Jewel Motor Inn in upstate New York wasn't eleven-year-old Miriam Brockman's dream, but at least it's an adventure. But when it becomes clear that only a miracle is going to save the Jewel from bankruptcy, Miriam and her new Catholic friend Kate decide to create a Virgin Mary apparition at an abandoned drive-in theater.

The Jewel instantly fills up with guests, including Anton, whose mother doesn't seem to understand that using a wheelchair doesn't mean he wants a miracle. Miriam must deal with feelings of guilt at having faked the apparition, and happiness at all the good things the new tourist site has brought to the community.

In the end, a shocking incident of anti-Semitism threatens her new home as well as the growing friendships within the Jewel's diverse community. And unless Miriam finds a way to resolve all the hurt and fear, the No Vacancy sign will come down for good, and she will lose the life she's worked so hard to build.
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Published 2020-08-01 by Groundwood Books

Comments

With effortless mastery, Cohen weaves the opposing forces of innocence and corruption, right and wrong, love and hate. [...] No Vacancy addresses the reality of anti- Semitism, hate, and prejudice prevalent in the daily lives of so many. Cohen makes clear that an act of hatred has the capacity to not only leave a lasting scar but also break the victim's spirit. Readers will see that the difference between dividing and uniting a community is contained in small yet powerful gestures of acceptance, kindness, and love. -- Quill & Quire, STARRED REVIEW Debut author Cohen displays a knack for storytelling that makes this a thoughtful, engrossing, funny read. -- Booklist A leisurely paced, character-rich tale of family, religious faith, and the human need for the miraculous. Strongly recommended for middle grade collections. -- School Library Journal Miriam is a delight, both sarcastic and complex. [...] No Vacancy has a moving, dramatic conclusion that leaves Miriam understanding more about life and herself and feeling more connected to her new community. --Foreword Reviews

English (Audio): Recorded Books;