Being a twelve-year-old has its challenges. Now add being the older sister and regular babysitter of rambunctious, five-year-old triplet brothers and you may wish you lived somewhere else. But beware! When your parents disagree with your babysitting methods, your wish might come true. For Ally, being sent to a large city the first week of summer vacation to help a great-aunt in need proves to be the perfect punishment, at least at first. Shortly after Ally arrives at the old run-down house, she discovers her family has a history and that history holds a secret. The family jewel is hidden so well in the hundred-year-old family home that it is now lost. Due to her fascination with the study of jewels and gems, Ally becomes intrigued. But it is her growing affection for the family members that have come before her that gives Ally the courage to find a way to preserve her family's history. With her new friend Ciro, she sets out to save her collapsing family by finding the jewel within. Ally's adventure is set in contemporary times, while touching on historical events, which coincide with the heroine's family history. Each chapter title is the name of a different gemstone, including its meaning or healing power that corresponds with the events of the chapter. Intended for, but not exclusive to, readers age eight to twelve

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