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The Desperate SearchLee Roddy

Children’s Christian historical adventure.

The Desperate Search

by Lee Roddy

Book 2 of the An American Adventure series

176 pages · First published 1989

Reunited with her family, Hildy Corrigan travels from Illinois to California with hopes of finally finding a permanent home. But devastating news about her father’s promised job leaves the Corrigans among thousands of migrant families struggling to survive the Great Depression. Facing poverty and prejudice, they shelter beneath a bridge while Hildy’s hopes for her younger siblings grow increasingly fragile. Further danger tests their courage and faith. Against the uncertainty of Depression-era California, family loyalty and stubborn hope give this adventure its heart.

Paired for this story

Molasses Cinnamon Cocoa + Second-Pour Merlot

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At a glance

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Spice0 of 5
Suspense3 of 5
Creepy0 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Great Depression poverty, unemployment, and homelessness; prejudice against migrant families, including the derogatory term “Okies”; family insecurity and separation; violence and child endangerment, including a near-drowning; implied adult alcohol misuse.

Alcohol-Free Pour

Molasses Cinnamon Cocoa

Old-fashioned molasses and cinnamon bring comforting warmth to Hildy’s search for a secure home.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Whisk the cocoa and sweetener into the hot liquid until smooth. Add remaining flavorings, heat until steaming, and pour into a mug. Add any listed topping.
  2. Garnish: As listed.
  3. Glassware: Mug.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Second-Pour Merlot

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

A quiet glass of Merlot suits an adult reader settling into this sober story of family hardship and persistent hope.

What you'll need

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Alcohol-shopping links are not shown on children's or young-adult book pages.

How to mix it

  1. Pour merlot into an appropriate wine glass and serve at the recommended temperature.
  2. Garnish: None.
  3. Glassware: Wine glass.

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