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Gr 5-8 Katy is a doctor's daughter in the early 20th century, and her curiosity is tolerated, even encouraged. This explains her relationship with the 14-year-old brother of her family's hired girl, Peggy. Jacob is "the silent boy" of the book's title who somehow communicates with animals, but only makes humming and clicking sounds when he is with people. Nevertheless, Katy and Jacob develop an unusual and treasured friendship. As befits a child growing up at this time, Katy is a true innocent and is puzzled by some of the things that happen a...Log In or Sign Up to Read More

Looking back from a distance of many decades, an elderly doctor recalls her small-town childhood and the unusual boy she befriended. Katy Thatcher is nearly eight when she first catches a glimpse of Jacob Stoltz. Described as "touched," Jacob seems to be autistic (though Lowry doesn't specify): he never speaks, yet mimics noises that he hears; he averts his eyes from other people, yet has a natural affinity for animals. Illustrated with vintage photographs representing the various chara...Log In or Sign Up to Read More