The Verse Novel Shelf
Cover of Out of the Dust

At a glance

Published
1997
Publisher
Scholastic Press
Subgenre
Historical
Words
19,756
Section
Middle Grade

Out of the Dust

Karen Hesse

During the Dust Bowl in 1930s Oklahoma, fourteen-year-old Billie Jo endures family tragedy and poverty, finding solace in piano and poetry.

  • Newbery Medal 1998
  • Scott O'Dell Award 1998
  • ALSC Notable Children's Book 1998
  • YALSA Best Books for Young Adults 1998
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Themes

FamilyGrief & lossResilience & survivalReal lives & historyPoetry & writing

Mood

Feels sad, reflective, hopeful.

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