“Blue” provides a fascinating glimpse into rural North Carolina in 1944. It captures daily life during this period, touching on aspects like rationing, farming, and the impact of World War II on families missing male relatives. The book particularly focuses on themes of racial inequality and the polio epidemic. 

The book highlights "the miracle of Hickory," a real event where a summer camp was rapidly converted into a hospital to address a severe polio outbreak in Hickory, North Carolina. In just three days, the hospital was fully outfitted and staffed. The swift and generous response from both the government and the local community, all driven by a desire for the children's recovery, is a central theme. 

Although the writing can be somewhat uneven at times, Moyer Hostetter does a commendable job of weaving historical elements into the story. The book effectively conveys the resilience and solidarity of the community while also showing the prejudice against African Americans that was unsettlingly commonplace during the time. The historical context is made accessible and appropriate for young readers. Moyer Hostetter's ability to blend historical facts with narrative storytelling provides a meaningful learning experience, even if the prose occasionally feels disjointed.