The Boy on the Porch tells the story of a young couple who find a boy sleeping on their porch one day. He is mute -- doesn't speak, but he carries a note with him written by someone asking the couple to "keep Jacob safe" for a while. The couple do, and before they know it, they feel as though Jacob is their own son. They marvel at his talent for music and art, are amused by his play with their cow and dog, and --before they know it-- come to love Jacob. Along with this love comes a fear of what will happen if "the people" come back for Jacob, and a hope that no one ever will. 
 Sharon Creech is one of my favorite authors. The way that she spins out a plot-- just a bit at a time so the reader keeps wondering and thinking--is masterful. Creech's voice is also distinctive and beautiful. She writes with words that may not be commonplace for young readers, but that completely fit her setting ("derelict buildings" and "rustic barns") and characters (they "fashioned" a small bed for him and "readied him" for sleep). The Boy on the Porch was a satisfying read!