In turn-of-the-century New York City, young Elsie Lutz must face life alone after her father's wrongful imprisonment. Her odds change when she meets Grin, a mysterious teenage newsboy with a kind heart. Together, they get caught up in the exhilarating newsboy strike of 1899, an actual event that had children labor fighting for fair pay. Through challenges and setbacks, Elsie discovers the power of her voice as she attempts to free her father and help her new friends. Follow Elsie's thrilling quest for justice and self-discovery in a world where young voices can make a big difference.

Reads like a classic...

The book includes the real timeline and history of the newsies strike, glossary, map, and bibliography. Perfect for lovers of historical fiction, a strong female character, and social issues. Calling Extra is also ideal for teachers looking for books for their middle-grade readers. The novel has been used in schools across the world to pair with a study of turn-of-the-century US history, women's suffrage, and 1800s American immigration.

REVIEWS

With a new century on the horizon, change might lay in the hands of the youngest... Two [kids] do their part to make a difference and make "Calling Extra" a riveting read of a struggling youth against a world with no favor for them.

• Midwest Book Review, June 2012

Romero has chosen an exciting historical episode for her first novel. The premise is helped by Romero's use of historical characters, like the one-eyed Kid Blink. Elsie makes a sympathetic heroine, both thoughtful and hard-headed.

-- Kirkus Book Reviews