Aram is like all the boys exiled in Greece. He has survived the Armenian genocide in Turkey and now lives in an orphanage. He can never return home. One day Aram learns that he will be one of fifty boys who will start a new life in a country called Canada. What does he know of this distant land? There is snow, lots to eat, and no war. But most important of all, Aram has heard that the trees are covered in gold. All he will have to do is pluck the gold off the branches and he will have enough money to bring his grandmother out to join him. But first he must get there.
Aram is about to embark on a long adventure. Will he find a land of endless riches, or a place he can finally call home?
"A story that is sure to inspire thoughtful discussion about relocation and humanitarian efforts."
— Also from the School Library Journal
"Aram's Choice is emotionally-charged . . . a perfect choice for lessons in history and humanitarianism. Readers between ages 8 and 11 (Grade 2-5) will feel a deep connection to the events, because the story is told first person through the eyes of a 12-year-old boy."
— Curled Up With A Good Kid's Book
"Young readers will find information on a little known period of Armenian and Canadian history in an enjoyable and easy to read format.
Recommended."
— CM Magazine
"Aram's Choice is superbly written to appeal to young audiences while informing them of the history of the world in which we live. . .Aram's Choice is an affordable, comprehensive asset to the social studies classroom."
"Rated: Excellent, enduring, everyone should see it!"
— Resource Links
"Short chapters, appealing full-color artwork, and well-researched back matter make this a good choice for readers interested in past humanitarian efforts.
— Booklinks
Chapter 1: On the island of Corfu, Greece
Chapter 2: Mrs. Walker 's Office
Chapter 3: Ghost Ship
Chapter 4: Aram, Box 8
Chapter 5: Disaster!
Chapter 6: Hospital
Chapter 7: On the SS Minnedosa
Chapter 8: Port of Quebec
Chapter 9: Montreal
Chapter 10: Orphan's Gold
Chapter 11: Gone!
Chapter 12: Georgetown Boys' Farm
Aram's travel map
Glossary
Suggested Reading
Index
Biographies
Historical note
Muriel Wood
is acclaimed for the accurate historical detail in her illustrations. She is the illustrator of Apples and Angel Ladders, Scared Sarah, The Olden Days Coat, Anne of Green Gables, and Old Bird. Muriel lives in Port Hope, Ontario.
Canadian Children's Book Centre Our Choice, 2007
Canadian Library Association Book of the Year for Children shortlist, 2007
Golden Oak nominee, 2008
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