Call of the Desert: Crossing
a mystical adventure for all ages
Enter the magical world of the award-winning first book in the Beloved Daughter series.
+++
New country.
New school.
New life.
This is twelve-year-old Claire Hamilton’s chance to reinvent herself, if only she can hide who she really is.
But the mysterious Arabian desert threatens to reveal all, drawing Claire beyond her self-imposed rules with the help of a friendly magical snake.
Will the challenges Claire faces destroy the “normal Claire” she’s worked so hard to become, or is she about to discover a love beyond her imagination that will help her embrace her truest self?
Content Warning:
Call of the Desert: Crossing includes elements of bullying and the threat of harm. Also, the main character's parents subject her to emotional abuse. Readers who may be sensitive to these elements, please take note.
Buy or borrow Call of the Desert: Crossing
from Trillium Creek Publishing
Only the paperback format is available from the author's publisher.
from a Retailer
Paperback and eBook formats are available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, etc.
from the Indie Author Project
Only the eBook format is available to borrow from the BiblioBoard Library (mobile and web).
What readers are saying
Slide 1 of 22
"I loved this book. It's a beautiful YA novel with a considerate, attentive, and deeply relatable central character. The book beautifully captures the coming-of-age challenges faced by a kid who just wants to be “normal” in a world that penalizes girls with strong curiosity, a head for science, and a love of books. Claire’s exploration of spiritual faith in various forms draws the reader in and culminates in wisdom that can inspire readers of all ages. Well worth a read for its absorbing story, well-drawn characters, and Claire’s many (and most delightful) descriptions of her favorite words. In fact, "delightful" may just be my new favorite word!"
- Jean
"An adventurous story set in an exotic location, Call of the Desert: Crossing combines ordinary teenage struggles with an extraordinary touch of magic to make a great read for the target audience as well as adults. Whereas messages of "you are not enough" bombard our youth through social media and advertising, this book counters with the eternal truth: "you are beloved." The author, A. A. Vogel, and this work will remind you of Madeleine L'Engle and her classic (my all-time fav) A Wrinkle in Time. Can't wait to read more from this author as her promised series continues."
- KAHB
"I was captivated from the start! The story provides an interesting perspective of seeing through the eyes of a character who is growing up in a far-away land and in a different time. Taking place in 1970 adds extra retro fun for adult readers (Gen X and higher) to relive memories, and for teen and younger adult readers, it deepens their understanding of how things were different. The setting in Saudi Arabia provides an interesting and enlightening glimpse into a foreign culture which enables the broadening of one’s horizons. I found the way that the different cultures and beliefs were presented was very harmonious, respectful, and engaging."
- Enchanted
"Highly recommend this book, if you enjoy classic YA! It features a well-written main character that you really root for, in the form of thoughtful, earnest young teenager Claire. I also loved ms. snake (a magical being who is still capable of minor hissy fits and getting excited about teen crushes), ms. mama dog, kind Sa'id, and of course the ineffable Mrs. Green."
- Laura
"This is a very interesting and readable coming-of-age book for both adults and teenagers. Claire is an American girl living in a different culture. She finds a Unity in this Diversity that will provoke good discussions amongst Readers. A good gift as well as a read and promises more Claire books to come for her fans."
- Susan
"I loved this book. This story is a wonderful combination of the every day with the magical, the prosaic with the spiritual, the angst of teenager cliques and first crushes with the delight of making good friends and finding one's place in the world. Claire faces many challenges, including insecurity, mean teens, annoying adults, relationship misunderstandings, a biting horse, insensitivity and racism, mysterious plagues, and truly frightening dangers. The excellent writing drew me into the book right away and kept me turning pages (electronically speaking) until late in the night. The ending was satisfying, but I want to read more. I can't wait for the next book in the series."
- Mesembryanthemum
"A great read for ages 8 to 108! I enjoyed this book because of the complexity of the main character and fantastic elements. The MC has many issues to resolve along with handling the mysterious happenings going on around her. I also thought the romance was a fun addition to the story and kept it moving along well, without being inappropriate. I considered giving it to my 12 year old niece, but I'm unwilling to give it away, so I may just need to buy her her own copy…"
- Sandra
"This is a book I would recommend both to young adults and to parents of teens. The author’s style flows easily and keeps your attention enticing you to keep reading out of curiosity about this unique use of magic in a straightforward story about youth, self awareness and growing up in challenging circumstances. Even though the book draws heavily from the author’s own growing up years in Saudi Arabia, the circumstances and issues are just as relevant for today. I will be quick to read the second in this series when it comes out."
- Beverly
"I enjoyed how Ms. Vogel described her characters, I remember feeling as Claire felt. The Saudi desert and American compound were well described as the author speaks from experience. I've already passed the book to one of my favorite 12 year olds."
- Fluffy
"Crosses borders and gives a vivid, fascinating picture of life in another time and place! This was a page turner in so many ways for me - what would happen next with Claire... how about in her growing, eclectic (I mean, are we counting snakes, little old ladies, mean horses and 'mean girls'??) social circle... what tidbits of life in an international compound in 1970s Saudi Arabia would I find... what gems of Arabic phrases could I learn... and - spoiler alert - WHAT'S UP WITH THAT DARN SNAKE??"
- Avid YA reader
"So excited! Two chapters in, and can't wait to see where this stick and girl take me!"
- Amazon customer
"Mystery, Adventure, and Just a Little Romance! Originally I purchased a copy of this book as a gift, but the cover intrigued me, and I started paging through -- what a fun adventure! Claire is a 12-year who has moved with her parents as they undertake their own desert adventure. Claire is trying to fit in and yet becoming her own person, with all the complications that offers. A. A. Vogel has crafted an endearing character in Claire, an intriguing desert location, and an all-around good story. I highly recommend it to teens and adults!"
- Holly
"Here’s why I enjoyed the story, it is very well written and it is like going back into a time machine to the 1970’s in the desert. There are no 1979 pennies in your pocket to pull you out of the story. And while there is a romantic storyline it’s not the major one, in some ways it takes a back seat to Claire’s other trials. Vogel does a great job of weaving in the story of the plagues of Exodus and imagining what they would be like in the modern world. She also does a great job of exploring the concept of the parting of the Red Sea without the Red Sea actually parting again. I also enjoy the fact that even though this is appears to be the first in a series we as readers aren’t left with a cliff hanger, just a feeling of having heard the story of a new friend who has more adventures to share. Targeted for ages 10-18, this story will also be enjoyable for older readers for the time setting. There are some themes that may be beyond younger readers. I’m looking forward to reading additional works from Vogel."
- Tina
"This young adult novel is set in a compelling setting in the Middle East, immediately gripping readers with its sense of otherness and a character taken from her comfort zone into a foreign world. She faces challenges with power dynamics at home, relational intricacies at school, limitations of a foreign culture, and internal weaknesses within herself. The author weaves beautiful and mystical layers of spirituality into the story in a way that comes across real and authentic, taking old stories and bringing them to life in new ways while acknowledging the inter-relational wisdom of multiple faiths. The ending message is one of being beloved."
- Danielle
"This coming-of-age story had me hooked from start to finish! I was on the edge of my seat, eager to see Claire navigate the relatable challenges that many teenagers face today. As the story neared its climax, I couldn't put it down, desperate to ensure Claire's well-being. What makes this book truly special is its unique setting in pre-modernized Saudi Arabia, offering a rare glimpse into a culture and its warm-hearted people, often overlooked in mainstream media. Claire's perspective provides a fresh and insightful look into this fascinating world. A truly captivating read!"
- Screenwriter
"Claire is an engaging protagonist. It's also good that Claire isn't the only character who struggles and changes during the course of the story. Looking forward to reading more about Claire and her world as the series progresses! Normally I would buy the Kindle version, but I bought the paperback to pass on to a friend. I really like the cover and the text is easy to read."
- John
"I love this story. There's so much to be gained from this for persons of all ages. We can all relate to Claire as she struggles to fit in with her peers and tries to be the compliant daughter her parents expect. Yet we love the young person she is trying to bury. The author's done a brilliant job of blending multi-cultural and religious norms into a setting that amplifies the effects of bias and bigotry that impact young adult (and adult) lives everywhere."
- Diane S.
"Call of the Desert: Crossing is a coming-of-age story that will appeal to both young and older people. The setting, Saudi Arabia in 1970, is exotic but young Claire is a typical American girl on the cusp of her teen years. While she and her friends navigate all the trials and joys of adolescence - including adults who seem somewhat oblivious to their difficulties, author Vogel throws in a few surprises. The weaving of a magical snake and a wild dog that might be a lion adds another layer of intrigue and a bit of excitement to the plot. I'm looking forward to reading the second book in this series."
- Book-critik
"A really fun read that kept me engaged. Vogel blends the challenges of teen-ness through her life with family and peers, living in an unfamiliar setting of a foreign country, and draws you into the bond she develops for it. The addition of supernatural animals who bond with her is delightful and brings you even more into her head and heart. You'll enjoy this adventure from start to finish, and I promise you'll want her second book, which I am just starting to read - with enthusiasm."
- Amazon customer
"A range of perspectives. An engaging read throughout. A page-turner at the end that took me well past my normal time for lights out. Claire's processing and acting on (or not) guidance provided by the various adults and peers in her life via dictate, inference or suggestion was especially enjoyable to read, though less so for Claire. A repeated parenthetical device that embraced the learning of single words was a wonderful way of displaying incremental learning. Time to read was well spent."
- Thomas
"Outstanding! A very interesting and spiritual read with lots of surprising twists. An excellent story for anyone from 12 to 90!"
- Bob
"Meaningful and magical! Call of the Desert: Crossing is an intriguing novel for young adults as well as readers of any age. Readers are immersed in a meaningful story that has a spark of magic with a desert snake and a friendly desert dog. We follow Claire’s inner journey and external challenges as she enters a new school in a foreign country. Her desire to fit in with the crowd is compounded by cultural differences, norms, and the language of Saudi Arabia. Readers can relate to the characters’ interactions with friendships, teenage love, awkwardness, insecurities, jealousies, and meanness. Claire shows us how she overcomes personal and physical obstacles with courage and kindness. We cheer when Claire and Luke’s inexperience with relationships matures into true friendship and young love. Finding oneself is a journey worth taking."
- Brooke
"I loved this book. It's a beautiful YA novel with a considerate, attentive, and deeply relatable central character. The book beautifully captures the coming-of-age challenges faced by a kid who just wants to be “normal” in a world that penalizes girls with strong curiosity, a head for science, and a love of books. Claire’s exploration of spiritual faith in various forms draws the reader in and culminates in wisdom that can inspire readers of all ages. Well worth a read for its absorbing story, well-drawn characters, and Claire’s many (and most delightful) descriptions of her favorite words. In fact, "delightful" may just be my new favorite word!"
- Jean
"An adventurous story set in an exotic location, Call of the Desert: Crossing combines ordinary teenage struggles with an extraordinary touch of magic to make a great read for the target audience as well as adults. Whereas messages of "you are not enough" bombard our youth through social media and advertising, this book counters with the eternal truth: "you are beloved." The author, A. A. Vogel, and this work will remind you of Madeleine L'Engle and her classic (my all-time fav) A Wrinkle in Time. Can't wait to read more from this author as her promised series continues."
- KAHB
"I was captivated from the start! The story provides an interesting perspective of seeing through the eyes of a character who is growing up in a far-away land and in a different time. Taking place in 1970 adds extra retro fun for adult readers (Gen X and higher) to relive memories, and for teen and younger adult readers, it deepens their understanding of how things were different. The setting in Saudi Arabia provides an interesting and enlightening glimpse into a foreign culture which enables the broadening of one’s horizons. I found the way that the different cultures and beliefs were presented was very harmonious, respectful, and engaging."
- Enchanted
"Highly recommend this book, if you enjoy classic YA! It features a well-written main character that you really root for, in the form of thoughtful, earnest young teenager Claire. I also loved ms. snake (a magical being who is still capable of minor hissy fits and getting excited about teen crushes), ms. mama dog, kind Sa'id, and of course the ineffable Mrs. Green."
- Laura
"This is a very interesting and readable coming-of-age book for both adults and teenagers. Claire is an American girl living in a different culture. She finds a Unity in this Diversity that will provoke good discussions amongst Readers. A good gift as well as a read and promises more Claire books to come for her fans."
- Susan
"I loved this book. This story is a wonderful combination of the every day with the magical, the prosaic with the spiritual, the angst of teenager cliques and first crushes with the delight of making good friends and finding one's place in the world. Claire faces many challenges, including insecurity, mean teens, annoying adults, relationship misunderstandings, a biting horse, insensitivity and racism, mysterious plagues, and truly frightening dangers. The excellent writing drew me into the book right away and kept me turning pages (electronically speaking) until late in the night. The ending was satisfying, but I want to read more. I can't wait for the next book in the series."
- Mesembryanthemum
"A great read for ages 8 to 108! I enjoyed this book because of the complexity of the main character and fantastic elements. The MC has many issues to resolve along with handling the mysterious happenings going on around her. I also thought the romance was a fun addition to the story and kept it moving along well, without being inappropriate. I considered giving it to my 12 year old niece, but I'm unwilling to give it away, so I may just need to buy her her own copy…"
- Sandra
"This is a book I would recommend both to young adults and to parents of teens. The author’s style flows easily and keeps your attention enticing you to keep reading out of curiosity about this unique use of magic in a straightforward story about youth, self awareness and growing up in challenging circumstances. Even though the book draws heavily from the author’s own growing up years in Saudi Arabia, the circumstances and issues are just as relevant for today. I will be quick to read the second in this series when it comes out."
- Beverly
"I enjoyed how Ms. Vogel described her characters, I remember feeling as Claire felt. The Saudi desert and American compound were well described as the author speaks from experience. I've already passed the book to one of my favorite 12 year olds."
- Fluffy
"Crosses borders and gives a vivid, fascinating picture of life in another time and place! This was a page turner in so many ways for me - what would happen next with Claire... how about in her growing, eclectic (I mean, are we counting snakes, little old ladies, mean horses and 'mean girls'??) social circle... what tidbits of life in an international compound in 1970s Saudi Arabia would I find... what gems of Arabic phrases could I learn... and - spoiler alert - WHAT'S UP WITH THAT DARN SNAKE??"
- Avid YA reader
"So excited! Two chapters in, and can't wait to see where this stick and girl take me!"
- Amazon customer
"Mystery, Adventure, and Just a Little Romance! Originally I purchased a copy of this book as a gift, but the cover intrigued me, and I started paging through -- what a fun adventure! Claire is a 12-year who has moved with her parents as they undertake their own desert adventure. Claire is trying to fit in and yet becoming her own person, with all the complications that offers. A. A. Vogel has crafted an endearing character in Claire, an intriguing desert location, and an all-around good story. I highly recommend it to teens and adults!"
- Holly
"Here’s why I enjoyed the story, it is very well written and it is like going back into a time machine to the 1970’s in the desert. There are no 1979 pennies in your pocket to pull you out of the story. And while there is a romantic storyline it’s not the major one, in some ways it takes a back seat to Claire’s other trials. Vogel does a great job of weaving in the story of the plagues of Exodus and imagining what they would be like in the modern world. She also does a great job of exploring the concept of the parting of the Red Sea without the Red Sea actually parting again. I also enjoy the fact that even though this is appears to be the first in a series we as readers aren’t left with a cliff hanger, just a feeling of having heard the story of a new friend who has more adventures to share. Targeted for ages 10-18, this story will also be enjoyable for older readers for the time setting. There are some themes that may be beyond younger readers. I’m looking forward to reading additional works from Vogel."
- Tina
"This young adult novel is set in a compelling setting in the Middle East, immediately gripping readers with its sense of otherness and a character taken from her comfort zone into a foreign world. She faces challenges with power dynamics at home, relational intricacies at school, limitations of a foreign culture, and internal weaknesses within herself. The author weaves beautiful and mystical layers of spirituality into the story in a way that comes across real and authentic, taking old stories and bringing them to life in new ways while acknowledging the inter-relational wisdom of multiple faiths. The ending message is one of being beloved."
- Danielle
"This coming-of-age story had me hooked from start to finish! I was on the edge of my seat, eager to see Claire navigate the relatable challenges that many teenagers face today. As the story neared its climax, I couldn't put it down, desperate to ensure Claire's well-being. What makes this book truly special is its unique setting in pre-modernized Saudi Arabia, offering a rare glimpse into a culture and its warm-hearted people, often overlooked in mainstream media. Claire's perspective provides a fresh and insightful look into this fascinating world. A truly captivating read!"
- Screenwriter
"Claire is an engaging protagonist. It's also good that Claire isn't the only character who struggles and changes during the course of the story. Looking forward to reading more about Claire and her world as the series progresses! Normally I would buy the Kindle version, but I bought the paperback to pass on to a friend. I really like the cover and the text is easy to read."
- John
"I love this story. There's so much to be gained from this for persons of all ages. We can all relate to Claire as she struggles to fit in with her peers and tries to be the compliant daughter her parents expect. Yet we love the young person she is trying to bury. The author's done a brilliant job of blending multi-cultural and religious norms into a setting that amplifies the effects of bias and bigotry that impact young adult (and adult) lives everywhere."
- Diane S.
"Call of the Desert: Crossing is a coming-of-age story that will appeal to both young and older people. The setting, Saudi Arabia in 1970, is exotic but young Claire is a typical American girl on the cusp of her teen years. While she and her friends navigate all the trials and joys of adolescence - including adults who seem somewhat oblivious to their difficulties, author Vogel throws in a few surprises. The weaving of a magical snake and a wild dog that might be a lion adds another layer of intrigue and a bit of excitement to the plot. I'm looking forward to reading the second book in this series."
- Book-critik
"A really fun read that kept me engaged. Vogel blends the challenges of teen-ness through her life with family and peers, living in an unfamiliar setting of a foreign country, and draws you into the bond she develops for it. The addition of supernatural animals who bond with her is delightful and brings you even more into her head and heart. You'll enjoy this adventure from start to finish, and I promise you'll want her second book, which I am just starting to read - with enthusiasm."
- Amazon customer
"A range of perspectives. An engaging read throughout. A page-turner at the end that took me well past my normal time for lights out. Claire's processing and acting on (or not) guidance provided by the various adults and peers in her life via dictate, inference or suggestion was especially enjoyable to read, though less so for Claire. A repeated parenthetical device that embraced the learning of single words was a wonderful way of displaying incremental learning. Time to read was well spent."
- Thomas
"Outstanding! A very interesting and spiritual read with lots of surprising twists. An excellent story for anyone from 12 to 90!"
- Bob
"Meaningful and magical! Call of the Desert: Crossing is an intriguing novel for young adults as well as readers of any age. Readers are immersed in a meaningful story that has a spark of magic with a desert snake and a friendly desert dog. We follow Claire’s inner journey and external challenges as she enters a new school in a foreign country. Her desire to fit in with the crowd is compounded by cultural differences, norms, and the language of Saudi Arabia. Readers can relate to the characters’ interactions with friendships, teenage love, awkwardness, insecurities, jealousies, and meanness. Claire shows us how she overcomes personal and physical obstacles with courage and kindness. We cheer when Claire and Luke’s inexperience with relationships matures into true friendship and young love. Finding oneself is a journey worth taking."
- Brooke
"I loved this book. It's a beautiful YA novel with a considerate, attentive, and deeply relatable central character. The book beautifully captures the coming-of-age challenges faced by a kid who just wants to be “normal” in a world that penalizes girls with strong curiosity, a head for science, and a love of books. Claire’s exploration of spiritual faith in various forms draws the reader in and culminates in wisdom that can inspire readers of all ages. Well worth a read for its absorbing story, well-drawn characters, and Claire’s many (and most delightful) descriptions of her favorite words. In fact, "delightful" may just be my new favorite word!"
- Jean
"An adventurous story set in an exotic location, Call of the Desert: Crossing combines ordinary teenage struggles with an extraordinary touch of magic to make a great read for the target audience as well as adults. Whereas messages of "you are not enough" bombard our youth through social media and advertising, this book counters with the eternal truth: "you are beloved." The author, A. A. Vogel, and this work will remind you of Madeleine L'Engle and her classic (my all-time fav) A Wrinkle in Time. Can't wait to read more from this author as her promised series continues."
- KAHB
"I was captivated from the start! The story provides an interesting perspective of seeing through the eyes of a character who is growing up in a far-away land and in a different time. Taking place in 1970 adds extra retro fun for adult readers (Gen X and higher) to relive memories, and for teen and younger adult readers, it deepens their understanding of how things were different. The setting in Saudi Arabia provides an interesting and enlightening glimpse into a foreign culture which enables the broadening of one’s horizons. I found the way that the different cultures and beliefs were presented was very harmonious, respectful, and engaging."
- Enchanted
"Highly recommend this book, if you enjoy classic YA! It features a well-written main character that you really root for, in the form of thoughtful, earnest young teenager Claire. I also loved ms. snake (a magical being who is still capable of minor hissy fits and getting excited about teen crushes), ms. mama dog, kind Sa'id, and of course the ineffable Mrs. Green."
- Laura
"This is a very interesting and readable coming-of-age book for both adults and teenagers. Claire is an American girl living in a different culture. She finds a Unity in this Diversity that will provoke good discussions amongst Readers. A good gift as well as a read and promises more Claire books to come for her fans."
- Susan
"I loved this book. This story is a wonderful combination of the every day with the magical, the prosaic with the spiritual, the angst of teenager cliques and first crushes with the delight of making good friends and finding one's place in the world. Claire faces many challenges, including insecurity, mean teens, annoying adults, relationship misunderstandings, a biting horse, insensitivity and racism, mysterious plagues, and truly frightening dangers. The excellent writing drew me into the book right away and kept me turning pages (electronically speaking) until late in the night. The ending was satisfying, but I want to read more. I can't wait for the next book in the series."
- Mesembryanthemum
"A great read for ages 8 to 108! I enjoyed this book because of the complexity of the main character and fantastic elements. The MC has many issues to resolve along with handling the mysterious happenings going on around her. I also thought the romance was a fun addition to the story and kept it moving along well, without being inappropriate. I considered giving it to my 12 year old niece, but I'm unwilling to give it away, so I may just need to buy her her own copy…"
- Sandra
"This is a book I would recommend both to young adults and to parents of teens. The author’s style flows easily and keeps your attention enticing you to keep reading out of curiosity about this unique use of magic in a straightforward story about youth, self awareness and growing up in challenging circumstances. Even though the book draws heavily from the author’s own growing up years in Saudi Arabia, the circumstances and issues are just as relevant for today. I will be quick to read the second in this series when it comes out."
- Beverly
"I enjoyed how Ms. Vogel described her characters, I remember feeling as Claire felt. The Saudi desert and American compound were well described as the author speaks from experience. I've already passed the book to one of my favorite 12 year olds."
- Fluffy
"Crosses borders and gives a vivid, fascinating picture of life in another time and place! This was a page turner in so many ways for me - what would happen next with Claire... how about in her growing, eclectic (I mean, are we counting snakes, little old ladies, mean horses and 'mean girls'??) social circle... what tidbits of life in an international compound in 1970s Saudi Arabia would I find... what gems of Arabic phrases could I learn... and - spoiler alert - WHAT'S UP WITH THAT DARN SNAKE??"
- Avid YA reader
"So excited! Two chapters in, and can't wait to see where this stick and girl take me!"
- Amazon customer
"Mystery, Adventure, and Just a Little Romance! Originally I purchased a copy of this book as a gift, but the cover intrigued me, and I started paging through -- what a fun adventure! Claire is a 12-year who has moved with her parents as they undertake their own desert adventure. Claire is trying to fit in and yet becoming her own person, with all the complications that offers. A. A. Vogel has crafted an endearing character in Claire, an intriguing desert location, and an all-around good story. I highly recommend it to teens and adults!"
- Holly
"Here’s why I enjoyed the story, it is very well written and it is like going back into a time machine to the 1970’s in the desert. There are no 1979 pennies in your pocket to pull you out of the story. And while there is a romantic storyline it’s not the major one, in some ways it takes a back seat to Claire’s other trials. Vogel does a great job of weaving in the story of the plagues of Exodus and imagining what they would be like in the modern world. She also does a great job of exploring the concept of the parting of the Red Sea without the Red Sea actually parting again. I also enjoy the fact that even though this is appears to be the first in a series we as readers aren’t left with a cliff hanger, just a feeling of having heard the story of a new friend who has more adventures to share. Targeted for ages 10-18, this story will also be enjoyable for older readers for the time setting. There are some themes that may be beyond younger readers. I’m looking forward to reading additional works from Vogel."
- Tina
"This young adult novel is set in a compelling setting in the Middle East, immediately gripping readers with its sense of otherness and a character taken from her comfort zone into a foreign world. She faces challenges with power dynamics at home, relational intricacies at school, limitations of a foreign culture, and internal weaknesses within herself. The author weaves beautiful and mystical layers of spirituality into the story in a way that comes across real and authentic, taking old stories and bringing them to life in new ways while acknowledging the inter-relational wisdom of multiple faiths. The ending message is one of being beloved."
- Danielle
"This coming-of-age story had me hooked from start to finish! I was on the edge of my seat, eager to see Claire navigate the relatable challenges that many teenagers face today. As the story neared its climax, I couldn't put it down, desperate to ensure Claire's well-being. What makes this book truly special is its unique setting in pre-modernized Saudi Arabia, offering a rare glimpse into a culture and its warm-hearted people, often overlooked in mainstream media. Claire's perspective provides a fresh and insightful look into this fascinating world. A truly captivating read!"
- Screenwriter
"Claire is an engaging protagonist. It's also good that Claire isn't the only character who struggles and changes during the course of the story. Looking forward to reading more about Claire and her world as the series progresses! Normally I would buy the Kindle version, but I bought the paperback to pass on to a friend. I really like the cover and the text is easy to read."
- John
"I love this story. There's so much to be gained from this for persons of all ages. We can all relate to Claire as she struggles to fit in with her peers and tries to be the compliant daughter her parents expect. Yet we love the young person she is trying to bury. The author's done a brilliant job of blending multi-cultural and religious norms into a setting that amplifies the effects of bias and bigotry that impact young adult (and adult) lives everywhere."
- Diane S.
"Call of the Desert: Crossing is a coming-of-age story that will appeal to both young and older people. The setting, Saudi Arabia in 1970, is exotic but young Claire is a typical American girl on the cusp of her teen years. While she and her friends navigate all the trials and joys of adolescence - including adults who seem somewhat oblivious to their difficulties, author Vogel throws in a few surprises. The weaving of a magical snake and a wild dog that might be a lion adds another layer of intrigue and a bit of excitement to the plot. I'm looking forward to reading the second book in this series."
- Book-critik
"A really fun read that kept me engaged. Vogel blends the challenges of teen-ness through her life with family and peers, living in an unfamiliar setting of a foreign country, and draws you into the bond she develops for it. The addition of supernatural animals who bond with her is delightful and brings you even more into her head and heart. You'll enjoy this adventure from start to finish, and I promise you'll want her second book, which I am just starting to read - with enthusiasm."
- Amazon customer
"A range of perspectives. An engaging read throughout. A page-turner at the end that took me well past my normal time for lights out. Claire's processing and acting on (or not) guidance provided by the various adults and peers in her life via dictate, inference or suggestion was especially enjoyable to read, though less so for Claire. A repeated parenthetical device that embraced the learning of single words was a wonderful way of displaying incremental learning. Time to read was well spent."
- Thomas
"Outstanding! A very interesting and spiritual read with lots of surprising twists. An excellent story for anyone from 12 to 90!"
- Bob
"Meaningful and magical! Call of the Desert: Crossing is an intriguing novel for young adults as well as readers of any age. Readers are immersed in a meaningful story that has a spark of magic with a desert snake and a friendly desert dog. We follow Claire’s inner journey and external challenges as she enters a new school in a foreign country. Her desire to fit in with the crowd is compounded by cultural differences, norms, and the language of Saudi Arabia. Readers can relate to the characters’ interactions with friendships, teenage love, awkwardness, insecurities, jealousies, and meanness. Claire shows us how she overcomes personal and physical obstacles with courage and kindness. We cheer when Claire and Luke’s inexperience with relationships matures into true friendship and young love. Finding oneself is a journey worth taking."
- Brooke
What IBPA judges said
Call of the Desert: Crossing was submitted to the 2025 IBPA Book Award in Best New Voice - Children’s/Young Adult. It did not receive an award (oddly, no YA books did), but here are excerpts from the three judges’ comments.
IBPA Book Award Judge #1: The writing is exceptional, with the interweaving of believable coming-of-age realism and emotions, dreams, wishes, hopes, and magic in a seamless and, sometimes, almost lyrical manner. . . . a well-written and relatable story with its many young adult issues and the inclusion of a significant element of magic. The main character and narrator’s voice is clearly that of a young adult woman, and her isolation and emerging strength of character are evident. Overall, this is an excellent example of the potential of YA literature.
IBPA Book Award Judge #2: Call of the Desert: Crossing is a well organized, written, and developed book for middle grade or young adult readers. It has a clearly identifiable voice. Infusing magical realism into youth books is becoming more present but this book does it quite well and from a unique perspective. Overall, it is a great addition to the genre of middle reader or young adult novels.
IBPA Book Award Judge #3: The themes link magic realism and religion in an interesting and inclusive, nonjudgmental way. Claire is convincing as she matures and develops through the course of this story. The Saudi Arabian culture is treated respectfully. This book is well-written and engrossing.
