In 1968, 11-year-old Delphine and her younger sisters visit Cecile, their derelict mother. When Cecile sends them to a summer day camp sponsored by the Black Panthers, a revolutionary organization, Delphine struggles to care for her sisters in their new, politically-charged environment. Upon Cecile’s arrest and subsequent release, she shares her life story with Delphine, who finally learns why Cecile deserted her children. This poignant young adult novel successfully tackles challenging themes: racism, oppression, poverty, and dysfunctional families. One Crazy Summer is written for ages 9-12. (Amistad)