Overview
We came all the way from California to make something of ourselves.
Today’s the day we start.
California, 1939. It’s hard being the new kid in school. . . but it’s harder for eleven-year-old Lark, after she and her family flee Oklahoma’s Dust Bowl for a not-so-sunny welcome in California. Kids whisper Go back to Oklahoma! Lark would give anything to go back to where she came from, but she can’t: the dust storms destroyed everything. The farm labor camp she, her parents, and her siblings live in is her life now, and even Lark has to get a job picking cotton and fruit in the hot sun.
Can California really be “the land of milk and honey” she was promised? More than that. . . can it ever be home?
Mindy Nichols Wendell’s sophomore historical middle-grade novel is a heartfelt, powerful, and incredibly well-written story of resilience, pride, and tenacity in the face of overwhelming obstacles.
A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
While major retailers like Amazon may carry California or Dust, we specialize in bulk book sales and offer personalized service from our friendly, book-smart team based in Portland, Oregon. We’re proud to offer a Price Match Guarantee and a streamlined ordering experience from people who truly care.
We’re trusted by over 75,000 customers, many of whom return time and again. Want proof? Just check out our 25,000+ customer reviews—real feedback from people who love how we do business.
Prefer to talk to a real person? Our Book Specialists are here Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST and ready to help with your bulk order of California or Dust.