Acclaimed author, Ruth Behar, writes her first novel for young readers based on her childhood in the 1960's.  Ruthie is a young Cuban-Jewish immigrant girl who has just moved to New York City when a horrible car accident leaves her confined to bed in a body cast.  She must combat boredom, humiliation and fear during her almost yearlong recuperation.  At first Ruthie is consumed with bitterness towards the boys who caused the accident and derailed her just budding new life in the States.  But slowly, through the attention of her caring tutor, the love of her family and a Mexican neighbor, Chicho, who teaches her about art and life ... Ruthie begins to heal.  Not just her body but her heart as she learns about forgiveness.  The author writes vividly about the immigrant experience, cultural differences and loneliness in a foreign country but how ultimately friendships cross these divides.  Chicho tells her, "Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul."  And in turn, Ruthie learns, "life is about putting things in perspective.  Now I know it can change how you see the whole world."