Candle Island review

 

A moving portrait of loss and the restorative power of art.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After the accidental death of her father, twelve year old Lucretia Sanderson and her mother, relocate to Candle Island, Maine to rebuild and deal with their grief.  Her mom, a famous artist in Vermont, is also trying to avoid the nonstop hounding of journalists looking for interviews. Hoping to start a new life there, Lucretia finds it difficult to fit in with the local islanders and the touristy summer kids. When they move into their home, she learns the history behind the house belonging to the family of a girl named Murdock.  From the beginning, she has not been able to make friends with her and learns her story slowly as to why.  But as the summer goes on, there are many secrets among the island including one that Lucretia and her mom keep close to themselves. 

 

This is a heartfelt story for upper middle grade readers about grief, self-discovery, friendships and trying to navigate this big world as a gifted twelve year old.  The beautiful writing gave me a lot of visualization for the various characters, island life and the beauty of the New England Coast.  Lucretia is very mature for her age and at times I felt she should have been older than twelve.  But I did understand why her character was written in this way after learning she is a prodigy.  It was hard for her to fit in with the Islanders and the summer kids definitely did not make it any easier with their bullying.  The spoiled and wealthy summer kids cause much havoc for Lucretia and the Islanders but eventually had to take accountability for their actions.  The group of three were quite mean and I was glad how they had to answer for it in the story line.  The book is not only about Lucretia's grief and rebuilding. There are secrets about a hidden room, a found poetry writing, a mysterious boy with a magical singing voice, an orphaned osprey chick rescue and the role art plays in our healing.  There is a wonderful sense of family between adults and kids while also showing empathy for others and animals.  The state of Maine is the perfect setting for the appreciation and the beauty of art and nature which plays a strong role in the story as well.  Although it is not a fast-paced read, it does depict a slow island life I'd long for.  There are good character developments among the many throughout.  It is a wonderful book for summer reading but could also work for anytime of the year with the many twists and themes.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 11-13.~

 

Title: Candle Island

Author: Lauren Wolk

Pub. date: April 2025, Dutton Books for Young Readers

Genre: middle grade realistic fiction

Hardcover, 352 pgs. 

Bird Nerd review

 

Thoughtful, nerdy fifth-grader Nyla sets out to win her school's bird watching competition, while balancing old friends with new in this heartfelt debut.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

Fifth Grader Nyla Braun knows everything about birds and what better way to prove to her classmates that she is more than just a bird nerd than by winning the Spring Birding Tournament. It is a friendly competition arranged by her teacher between her school in Philadelphia (the City Birders) and another school in the suburbs (the Burb Birders).  She makes a bird feeding station, visits local parks and visits with her fellow bird watching grandfather for tips.  But Nyla finds it may not be as easy as she thinks to be the big winner. 

 

The first thing that captured my heart was Nyla's gaze of wonderment on the beautiful front cover.  But this heart-warming debut novel is more than just about bird watching.  It is about family and friendships, perseverance, belonging and self-discovery.   Middle grade readers will find Nyla and her classmates relatable as she tries to navigate friendships, the desire to be popular and being true to herself.  Her family is very supportive of her birding passion and it was wonderful how encouraging they were.  Her relationship with her best friend Tasha changes as the competition gets underway and there are many ups and downs of balancing new friends with old.  There are many bird facts included in the story that offers a wonderful learning opportunity for kids and maybe even spark a new hobby of bird watching.  There are detailed descriptions of various birds and behaviors that kids will recognize from their backyard and may just want to stop and watch for themselves after reading about Nyla's experience. I loved how she journaled and recorded her findings and sharing her passion with readers.   This is a quiet, gentle book that I found to be a fast-paced read.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 9-11.~

 

Title: Bird Nerd

Author: Jennifer Ann Richter

Pub. date: October 2024, Holiday House

Genre: middle grade fiction

Hardcover, 240 pgs.

 

 

 

 

Faker review

 

The story of a family of liars... and the son who wants to break the family tradition.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trey is used to moving around and being the new kid in school.  While attending boarding schools, he knows how to make friends with the rich kids.  Once they are hooked,  it is then his dads turn to lure in the parents for one of his investment scams.  Trey's dad is a con artist and good at his profession.  But once the investment scheme is completed and the money is all set, Trey and his family pull a Houdini.  A Houdini is when it is time to take the money and run, immediately leaving everything behind to disappear for a while.  But Trey starts questioning what he has been taught to do after settling in Boxelder, Tennessee and starting a public school for the first time.  His dad offers a new investment on a fake start up electric car company, the biggest scam by far.  Trey longs to lead a normal life but does not know how to tell his dad he is tired of lying and running.  

In this new middle grade novel, readers will find themselves pulled into Trey's story.  It is filled with internal conflicts and life lessons as Trey tries to navigate his 12 year old self while being his con man dad's partner in crime. When his social studies teacher does a unit on debating ethical issues, he begins to take a different look at the family business.  On top of this, his teacher's daughter takes an environmental stance to save a local pond polluted with sludge.  Things begin to become personal when Trey joins the cause and he begins to care for the friends that he is making at his new school.  He also questions his dad's swindling lifestyle and sees things differently after his 10 year old sister becomes a little to enthusiastic about ripping people off.  She is quite a feisty character but does not have the maturity to fully understand what is going on.  Trey has a lot of character development and readers will connect with him as he questions right from wrong and longing for a normal life.  His dad promises it will stop after the big one but will it ever?  The book touches on many themes such as; morals, values, friends and family relationships, trust, lying, guilt and even environmental issues.  The book is a quick read and has some twists and turns. The ending wrapped up a little fast but had a positive outcome.   If kids are looking for a book to start the school year off with this would be a great read.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 10-12.~

 

Title:  Faker

Author: Gordon Korman

Pub. date: July 2024, Scholastic Press

Genre: middle grade, realistic fiction

Hardcover, 224 pgs.

Wild Wave review

 

Another WILD adventure from Rodman Philbrick, author of Wildfire and Wild River. Wild Wave is the adventure of two kids trapped in the aftermath of a tsunami.(goodreads summary)I

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Middle Schoolers Nick Chase and Jess Hardy are spending a Saturday morning at an animal rescue sanctuary called the Friends of the Wild. Jess is a volunteer and Chase is gathering information for a school podcast assignment for one of his classes.  Suddenly, out of nowhere, an earthquake hits and everyone is frantic.  When they look over the bay area, the water is gone and boats are overturned on their sides. Only mud is left where the sea should be.  Nick and Jess's instinct tells them to run as a tsunami hits destroying everything in its path.  As the two kids run for high ground, they depend on each other for survival by working together and putting their courage to the test. 

 

This was a heart pounding and exciting middle grade novel. The story begins immediately by plunging readers into Nick and Jess's fight to stay alive.  As the rushing floodwaters push them deep into the forest, they begin to wonder how they will make it to safety or if they will ever see their families again.  They eventually find Mr. and Mrs. Bumper, the high school soccer coach and the science teacher at their middle school stranded in the forest.  Knowing they need to help save them as well, they decide to continue to trek out on their own, readily prepared by the Bumpers to face the dangerous elements ahead.  Remaining level headed and working together was a key part of the story for their survival. The numerous cliffhangers throughout makes you want to keep turning the pages. The chapters are fast-paced and short which would work well for reluctant readers.  We learn a lot about Nick and Jess as characters and their families.  They show their vulnerabilities and fear like any person would in a challenging situation such as this. But they also demonstrated maturity, strength, problem solving, courage and hope in finding their families alive.  Readers will relate to the pair and cheer for a positive outcome.   A great adventure story to end the summer with or pick up at the upcoming school book fair.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 10-12.~

Title:  Wild Wave

Author: Rodman Philbrick

Pub. date: August 2024 Scholastic Press

Genre: middle grade fiction, adventure

Hardcover 192 pgs.

 

 

 

 

Home Away from Home review

From Newbery Honor Winner Cynthia Lord, a brilliant story about how to find home when everything around us is changing.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eleven year old Mia is going through too many changes all at once.  Her parents are divorced and her dad has a new wife and baby.  Besides that, her mom and boyfriend Scott want to move to a new home and she has a difficult time when they need to get the house ready to sell.  To help with all the mixed feelings, Mia will be staying with her Grandma in Stone Harbor, Maine for a month.  Grandma calls it "a home away from home" and Mia is looking forward to spending alone time with her.  But when she arrives, a new neighbor boy named Cayman seems to have made himself quite comfortable there. Mia now feels jealous and competitive for her attention.  Her Grandma encourages her to make friends with him and the two go in search of the eagle's nest down by the lake.  While there, an unexpected large white bird is seen fighting with the eagles.  Never having seen a bird like this, Mia decides to post a picture of it online for information about what type of bird it could be.  It is a rare bird sighting and she stirs up unwanted attention from several outsiders that she really didn't intend to. This ends up putting the bird in danger and her friendship with Cayman falling apart.

Here is a wonderful story from one of my many favorite middle grade authors, Cynthia Lord.   It is heart felt and makes a great summer vacation read.  It is fast paced and short enough to keep kids attention throughout. Readers will find themselves connecting with Mia's feelings easily about change, making mistakes and understanding she needs to find a way to fix them.   Knowing that her actions caused unwanted consequences is a great learning opportunity for kids of this age.  Mia's friendship with Cayman is tested numerous times and we also find out that his mom is battling substance abuse.  The care and concern her grandmother expresses for Cayman and his mom shows what being a good neighbor means.  There is plenty of information about birds throughout the story which is perfect for the bird enthusiast.  Kids may pay more attention to the bird songs in their area from Mia's knowledge she shares.  I found myself visualizing the small Maine town of Stone Harbor and the locals that lived there.  What a beautiful "home away from home" place to be.  This is a gentle story about accepting change, normal feelings kids feel, following rules, learning from our mistakes and correcting them, empathy and being part of a community.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 9-11.

 

Title:  Home away from Home

Author:  Cynthia Lord

Pub. date: April 2023, Scholastic Press

Genre: middle grade

Hardcover, 224 pgs.

Moonpenny Island review

Moonpenny is a tiny island in a great lake. When the summer people leave and the ferries stop running, just the tried-and-true islanders are left behind. Flor and her best friend, Sylvie, are the only eleven-year-olds for miles and miles.  But come the end of summer, unthinkable things begin to happen. Sylvie is suddenly, mysteriously whisked away to school on the mainland. Flor’s mother leaves to take care of Flor’s sick grandmother and doesn’t come back. Her big sister has a secret, and Flor fears it’s a dangerous one.(goodreads)


Flor lives on Moonpenny Island year round with her parents, older sister Cecilia and younger brother Thomas. She and her best friend Sylvie are inseparable. During the summer months, the island is filled with visitors and new people.  One such visitor to the island is an unusual girl named Jasper. She and her geologist father are on the island in search of prehistoric trilobites.  But suddenly at the start of sixth grade, Flor is faced with unexpected changes to her family and friendship. Syvlie is sent away to live with relatives on the mainland to attend school there, Flor's mother leaves to take care of her grandmother wondering if she will come back and her sister begins to act strangely giving Flor the feeling she is keeping something from her.   As Flor's world is suddenly crashing down on her, she discovers her tiny island holds many truths she was not aware of.

One of my favorite authors has once again, beautifully written another heart warming, coming-of-age story for young readers.  From the summer island descriptions to each of the many different characters,  I found the story engaging and believable.  After Sylvie is unexpectedly sent away for no apparent reason, this abrupt change strains their friendship like many girls can go through when a friend moves away.  The characters of Jasper and her father Dr. Fife were a subtle but important part to Flor's insight and character development. She is faced with many issues in her young life. Her parents argue and her mother suddenly leaves to take care of a relative with Flor not knowing when or if she is coming back. Her sister is resorting to sneaking around, lying and is holding a secret from Flor. There is even a mention of alcoholism when she learns  of another secret her friend holds that she never realized was happening all along. The changes she faces gives her uncertainty but she learns that adapting and going along with those changes is how you grow.  It is a warm and gentle realistic story about friendships, family, conflict, secrets and change. The story moved along nicely offering a message to its reader about opening your eyes and seeing the things around you but it is how you see those things that will help shape you.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 9-12.~

Title: Moonpenny Island
Author: Tricia Springstubb
Pub. Date: February 2015, Balzer & Bray
Genre: realistic fiction, middle grade
Hardcover, 292 pgs.

On Snowden Mountain review

Twelve-year-old Ellen learns the quiet strength of family when her mother's deep depression prompts her to ask an estranged aunt for help.(goodreads summary)






This heartfelt story set in early September of 1942 during WW II,  contains numerous themes such as; depression, poverty, alcoholism and domestic/child abuse.  Ellen is trying her best to take care of herself and her mother who is suffering from severe depression ever since her father volunteered for the War.  Food is running out, funds are low and because her mother is not getting better she decides to contact her Aunt Pearl for help.  Aunt Pearl is a stoic, gruff woman from the mountains of Virginia, who insists they move from Baltimore and go back to live in Snowden.  Moving to the country was unexpected for Ellen and she is having a hard time adjusting to the simple rustic life.  There is no electricity or running water and only an outhouse for facilities.  When she attends the local school, she finds it is not like her school in Baltimore.  There are no desks but only benches with limited supplies and books.  She also has a classmate who smells like skunks and even though he is 15 years old, sits up in the front row with the 6 year old's.   As Ellen gets to know Russell better, she learns that he cannot read or write and has an alcoholic abusive father that makes him trap skunks for pelts instead of attending school regularly.  She also witnesses Russell's abusive father towards him and his mother first hand after he asks Ellen for help when his mother is beaten.  This is the first step towards an unlikely friendship for the two.  Ellen secretly teaches Russell school work and in return he teaches her the beauty of the mountains and nature around them. As the fall season closes and winter begins, Ellen starts to see things with a different view, where she eventually comes to accept the community she must now consider as her home. 

There are many other characters in the story that help in Ellen's character development.  Besides Aunt Pearl. there is Moselle Toms who is a busy-body and town gossip and latches onto Ellen for her own gain.  Ellen soon discovers that how things look on the outside is not always the same on the inside.  I liked that even though Aunt Pearl knew of this, she let Ellen find this out by herself so she could make her own conclusions about a true self.  Ellen also has fears of someday having the same depressive disorder that consumes her mother.  Aunt Pearl finally opened up about her family history and she learns many things about her Aunt and mother that she never knew before.  When I saw the cover of this book I thought it was a nice, gentle historical fiction for the younger middle grade readers.  After I read it, I learned just as Ellen did,  that you cannot judge a book by its' cover.  I feel it would be better suited for the middle school aged because of the heavy themes.  The end wrapped up very quickly and left me wishing for a few more chapters because it  left me thinking with further questions about Ellen or Russell and his mother.   I could visualize Snowden, Virginia in 1942, the rustic mountain town, Ellen's one room schoolhouse and each character easily with the beautiful descriptive writing style.  I could also feel what Ellen was feeling and thinking as she tried to adapt to the uncertainty of her future.  For being such a short story, it will leave the reader thinking about the realities of the past.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 11-13.~ 


Title:  On Snowden Mountain
Author:  Jeri Watts
Pub. date:  September 2019, Candlewick Press
Genre:  historical fiction
Hardcover, 193 pgs.

Planet Earth is Blue review

 

 

Twelve-year-old Nova is eagerly awaiting the launch of the space shuttle Challenger--it's the first time a teacher is going into space, and kids across America will watch the event on live TV in their classrooms. Nova and her big sister, Bridget, share a love of astronomy and the space program. They planned to watch the launch together. But Bridget has disappeared, and Nova is in a new foster home.(goodreads summary) 

 

 

Nova and Bridget have been in 11 different foster homes in 7 years.  Their mama was not able to care for them but Nova knows Bridget will always be there for her.  She is autistic and non-verbal and Bridget is the only one that understands her.  She tells everyone Nova is a "thinker, not a talker".  Nova is also very enthusiastic about astronomy and the upcoming space shuttle Challenger lift off.  After they run away from their current foster home, Nova is placed with another family and Bridget has disappeared.  All Nova can do is patiently wait for her big sister to return in time to watch the Challenger launch together.  Just like Bridget promised, no matter what.

There are many books and characters that will truly touch your heart and this debut novel is at the top of the list. This is a moving story, set in January 1986, about an autistic girl with a remarkable mind and a deep sisterly bond.  Moving around to different foster families was very hard on both girls and after running away, Nova was then placed with Francine and Billy but this time without Bridget. Uncertain as to where she is, Nova holds onto hope that she will find her in time to watch the Challenger lift off  in 10 days.  Everyday, as she counts down to the exciting day, she writes a letter to Bridget in her notebook.  Her teachers think they are just scribbles but listening to Nova's internal voice as she writes makes you realize how extraordinary children with severe autism might be.  I think more than adults understand or will ever know.  Nova was very articulate and thoughtful in her writing to Bridget and hearing her words made me forget how challenged she really was.  Nobody knows that Bridget taught her the ABC's or read novels to her because she is unable to tell it to the grown ups.  The chapters would also flashback during times in the girls lives giving us better understanding of their past that leads up to the present.  

The day of the lift off has finally arrived but to Nova's dismay Bridget did not come to find her.  Watching the Challenger disaster that day myself brought back that sad memory and I knew what was coming next for Nova and her classmates.   The shock was overwhelming for her to see but it also triggered her memories of that night they ran away and why Bridget has not come back like she promised.  Her final letter was four days after the lift off explaining to Bridget that she finally understands why and it made for a beautiful ending to an incredibly beautiful story.  You know it is a good book when it gives the reader many different feelings throughout while reading.  The author included a note at the end discussing the autism spectrum and an overview of the Challenger launch which compliments the story well.   I think this is a "just right book" for ages 11 -13.~

Title:  Planet Earth is Blue

Author: Nicole Panteleakos

Pub. date:  May 2019

Genre: realistic fiction

Hardcover, 232 pgs.  

Running Wild review

Twelve-year-old Willa and her twin brothers have survived with their father in the Alaskan wilderness for five years. But Willa knows this can't go on--they must escape.(goodreads summary)






For the past five years, twelve year old Willa lives with her dad and ten year old twin brothers in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness.  Choosing to live life off the grid, her dad moved the family there after the death of her mother.  At first, it seemed like happy times as they built their homestead with a flourishing garden and learned various survival skills.  But as the years pass, life is becoming harder and Willa's dad more withdrawn. The thoughts of survival are a continuous worry for her.  She misses her old life of fruits and vegetables from the local market, attending school and having a normal life of a twelve year old girl.  Hunting has been unsuccessful and food is becoming more scarce. Willa is concerned there is not enough rations to last the upcoming harsh winter.  When her dad travels to town for supplies he tends to be gone for longer amounts of time bringing back alcohol upon his return. He seems to be drinking more which is making him distant and at times violent towards her brothers.  Longing for a better life and having fears of not making it through the upcoming winter gives Willa the courage and strength to escape with her brothers to Fort Yukon for help.

Winter is right around the corner and there is no better time for an Alaskan adventure and survival story.  It is told from Willa's viewpoint and she makes for a believable character.  There were times I felt she seemed older and to mature for a 12 year old girl living in the middle of nowhere but I guess under the circumstances why would she not be. She is also unaware of the changes happening to her body for a girl her age which are mentioned various times in detail throughout the story which cause her concern.  After her dad goes on a hunting trip, she decides it is a good time to embark on a risky and dangerous journey to Fort Yukon.  Along the way they encounter loosing supplies, tangling with a bear and the risk of frigid temperatures and storms. The kids were taught many survival skills from their dad that came in useful on their trip. Planning their escape was a huge undertaking but Willa was aware of the many dangers they could face. Especially traveling down the river on a makeshift raft with two ten year olds and a wolf pup who did come to their rescue when needed. She strongly felt they would not survive through the winter and feared for her brothers lives if she had not taken the chance.  There were a couple of times the children second guessed their adventure due to the fear and devotion to their father.  But Willa's courage and strength kept her strong knowing that a different outcome awaits if they did not go to the nearest town for help as soon as possible.   She was a level headed character, caring, ambitious and saw things a lot more realistically than her dad who was suffering from grief and depression.  She also knew her dad needed help too.  The writing depicted the Alaskan wilderness and cold well enough to visualize the extreme and harsh environment the kids lived in and faced. The siblings determination for survival keeps them going in search of a new life.  The story moves along nicely with a few thrilling action parts making it an anticipating page turner.   It was a short and easy read (under 200 pages) making this a good choice for reluctant female readers when it comes to adventure or survival stories.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 11 and up.~

Title:  Running Wild
Author:  Lucy Jane Bledsoe
Pub. date:  September 2019, Margaret Ferguson Books
Genre: realistic fiction
Hardcover,  195 pgs.

   

All the Answers review

What if your pencil had all the answers? Would you ace every test? Would you know what your teachers were thinking? When Ava Anderson finds a scratched up pencil she doodles like she would with any other pencil. But when she writes a question in the margin of her math quiz, she hears a clear answer in a voice no one else seems to hear.(goodreads summary)



In the family's kitchen drawer, Middle Schooler Ava Anderson finds a very unusual pencil. It looks ordinary enough but it seems to have a magical power.  When she writes a question with it, there is a voice that only she can hear giving the answer.  Feeling anxious about a math quiz, she takes the pencil to school to see if it would help her on the test.  She then decides to show her best friend Sophie. The pair cause some unexpected results when they use it on the kids at school fooling them with their so called psychic ability.  As Ava becomes more reliant on the pencil, she asks some personal questions about her family but then wonders if there are some answers that are best not knowing.

If I had a magical pencil, I'm not sure if I would want to know answers to my many questions. Although, it does make me somewhat curious and it might be intriguing for kids, as in this story from one of my favorite authors for middle grade readers.  Kids will connect to Ava's worry's about test taking, friendships, personal family issues, fear of trying out for the jazz band, track and her upcoming field trip to the obstacle course. Her mild personality makes for a likeable character and the family interactions were touching throughout the story. Especially when it comes to the girls wanting to do good with the pencil helping the residents find happiness at her grandfather's nursing home. She found that her grumpy grandpa's favorite jazz artist was Johnny Hodges and taught herself to play his favorite song on her saxophone passing on instant joy for him.  Another key moment for Ava was after the pencil told her about her mom's unknown cancer and only she knew of the diagnosis. So when her mom was going to cancel a doctors appointment to accompany her on the field trip, Ava found the strength within herself to face her fear of the challenge course and do it on her own so her mom could keep it.  I also liked how the other kids cheered her on with encouragement and reading her accomplishment was heartwarming. She amazed herself so much completing it that she felt like she could take on anything. There were many more great character developments throughout not only for Ava, but also for the many other characters as well. I originally thought this book was going to be a fantasy read about a magical pencil. Instead, it turned out to be a wonderful realistic coming of age story touching on many topics such as; anxiety issues, rightful thinking, doing good for others, death, the possible cancer of a parent and facing your fears. I think this is a "just right " book for ages 9-12.~


Title:  All the Answers
Author: Kate Messner
Pub. date:   January 2015, Bloomsbury
Genre: realistic fiction
Hardcover, 256 pgs.

Cody and the Fountain of Happiness review

For  Cody, many things are beautiful, especially ants who say hello by rubbing feelers. But nothing is as beautiful as the first day of summer vacation.  Cody doesn’t want to waste one minute of it. Meanwhile, teenage brother Wyatt is moping over a girl, Mom is stressed about her new job, Dad is off hauling chairs in his long-distance truck, and even camp has been closed for the summer.  Just when all seems lost, Cody bumps into a neighborhood boy named Spencer who is looking for a runaway cat. With a new friend and a soon-to-be-found cat, Cody is on her way to the fountain of happiness.(goodreads summary)


If only everyday could be like the first day of summer vacation! All the things kids look forward to, either doing or not doing, could make or break a summer. For Cody, she is definitely not wasting one minute of it.  But things don't always go as expected. Her mom is anxious about the start of her new promotion, dad is an over- the-road truck driver, her older brother Wyatt is love-sick over a girl and tracking down a lost cat for her new friend Spencer is harder than she thought.

 Unfortunately, summer vacation may not be turning out what Cody anticipated after all. There are many different scenarios in this short and simple story that will keep young readers interested until the end. Cody's good intentions to cheer up Spencer and help keep his grandmothers cat from running away demonstrates her good nature and heart. Can cats really be hypnotized? It's at least worth a try according to Cody but as she soon learns, things do not always turn out as planned. As for Wyatt and helping to get the girl of his dreams? Well, sometimes it is just best to let things happen naturally.  Even though things backfired on her a few times, Cody's positive attitude and realization that she needs to think before she acts was a wonderful message. I enjoyed the illustrations throughout, which help break up the chapters into smaller sections for a reluctant reader.  I think this would be a "just right book" for ages 8-10.~

Title:  Cody and the Fountain of Happiness
Author: Tricia Springstubb, illustrated by Eliza Wheeler
Pub. date:  April 2015, Candlewick Press
Genre: middle grade, realistic fiction
Hardcover, 151 pgs.

Breathing Room review

Evvy Hoffmeister is thirteen years old when her family brings her to Loon Lake Sanatorium to get cured of tuberculosis (TB). Evvy is frightened by her new surroundings; the rules to abide are harsh and the nurses equally rigid. But Evvy soon falls into step with the other girls in her ward.   Set in 1940 at a time of political unrest throughout the U.S. and Europe, this thought-provoking novel sheds light on a much-feared worldwide illness. (goodreads summary)

  In May of 1940, 13 year old Evvy Hoffmeister is admitted to the Loon Lake Sanatorium in Minnesota. She was sent away from her family with the hopes of recovering from Tuberculosis. Upon her arrival, she is faced with many strict rules such as; plenty of rest, no talking, no stress on the lungs by coughing or crying and definitely no moving out of bed. She will be sharing a room with three girls named Dena, Pearl and Sarah and tries to settle into the rigid daily routines.  Despite the many uncertain days that loom ahead, the girls'  friendships blossom, pulling strength from one another that will help pull them through their illness and hopefully onto the road to recovery. 

I really enjoy books that not only tell a story but also one that a child will learn from. I found this very moving historical fiction one of these books. It was not only about having an illness and surviving but it also focuses on the friendships that formed because of it. The day-to-day struggles were well written and I felt the main character Evvy being a real person.  The head nurse they called Old Eagle Eye just added to the feeling of what it was like staying at a sanatorium under strict orders. The chapters are short with many vintage illustrations throughout. They added a great visual representation of the time as well.  Each girl adds her own story, strength and personality bringing the friendships closer with each slow moving day. Evvy finds that she has a talent for writing which she decides to try her hand at with her exploration through poetry.  Not all have a happy ending but it is the reality of an illness with no cure. The author does not sugar coat death when a patient dies from a hemorrhage or the effects the disease had on the body. Many people either made it or they didn't with some even having to reside at sanatoriums for years. It was a time I pictured vividly and learned many new things I never realized after reading Evvy's story because I never experienced it.  I did walk away with a stronger knowledge and understanding of something other than just a diagnosis or a term. I think if kids try and go into this book with an open mind, not looking for action or suspense, they may view it to be a very informative read. 

At the end of the book, I loved that the author gives many more facts about TB and details of her research leading up to this book. I learned for example that after Eleanor Roosevelt died, an autopsy discovered she had Tuberculosis and that the author of the Mrs. Piggle Wiggle series, Betty MacDonald, wrote The Plague and I which was based on her time at a sanatorium. Afterwards, there is another section devoted to full description of the chapter illustrations and once again, more things I did not know.  I saw the book is intended toward an  8-14 age group but feel  it would be better suited for an older audience. Tuberculosis is more than a cough and the description of symptoms and the patients trying to survive this terrible illness may be scary for the younger group. I am glad that this book gives voice to a sad time and forgotten or unknown part of our history. I think this is a "just right book" book for ages 11-14.~

Title:  Breathing Room
Author: Marsha Hayles 
Genre: Historical Fiction, Realistic Fiction
Pub. Date: June 2012, Henry Holt and Co.
 Hardcover, 244 pgs.

Almost Home review

When twelve-year-old Sugar's grandfather dies and her gambling father takes off yet again, Sugar and her mother lose their home in Missouri. They head to Chicago for a fresh start, only to discover that fresh starts aren't so easy to come by for the homeless. Nevertheless, Sugar's mother has taught her to be grateful no matter what, so Sugar does her best. With the help of a rescue dog, Shush; a foster family; a supportive teacher; a love of poetry; and her own grace and good humor, Sugar comes to understand that while she can't control the hand life deals her, she can control how she responds.(goodreads summary)


Sugar Mae Cole is finding it harder to keep her head up these days. Her on again/off again father has racked up so much gambling debt unable to repay it and leaving her mother Reba, unable to manage the finances. When he decides to come around, he is full of empty promises and Sugar does not believe or trust him. In the meantime, Sugar meets a girl who insists she take care of her puppy because her father will take it to the pound.  The puppy also has been mistreated by him as well. Soon after, her mom receives an eviction notice on the home they both live in and are forced out onto the street by weeks end. They move in with Reba's cousin who soon makes it known that she feels they have places for "people like them" and asks her to leave. A move into a shelter is tough on Sugar and Shush but she is determined to make the best of it. When Reba learns of a job opportunity in Chicago to clean houses, she decides to relocate them. Unfortunately, the job did not pan out and Reba falls into a depressive disorder, entering into a hospital and leaving Sugar and Shush to seek shelter at a foster home. Luckily, she does have her old English teacher Mr. B back home, who encourages her via email to be strong through her writing to help her with her feelings. All the while, Sugar tries to keep her spirit up and dreams alive of having her mother back and a place to call home again.

I believe I have several favorite middle grade authors and Joan Bauer is right at the top! In this book, she captured the voice of Sugar beautifully and gave her a sense of strength during very difficult times. Having a father she could not trust because he gambled money away or was either drinking to much, Sugar desperately wanted Reba to realize how bad he was for them. At times I felt she was older and wiser beyond her twelve years, realizing that some children need to do this in order to survive whatever challenges they face. There are several topics explored throughout the story such as gambling, drinking, absent parent, animal abuse, homelessness, depression and teenage drug use/death. Each one is written tenderly and with compassion and letting the reader know that, "hey it's out there and people do face difficulties like this everyday".  Great areas for opening up a conversation. Sugar cared immensely for Shush's well-being as he was such a nervous puppy at every noise or drop of a hat. It was only one of the things that came naturally for her. She was also a very talented writer of poems which were inspiring and written with such heartfelt words about her feelings and situation that it touches the heart. She was encouraged by her former teacher who was a strong support role and I liked how that character was included. Her mother promised to make things right again and Sugar held on to that hope but also realized she liked being at the foster home. The foster parents of Lexie and Mac, along with the neighbors and new friends, really helped with Sugar's adjustment.  At every turn of the page, I kept anticipating things were going to get better and I liked how the author gave me that sense of hope right along with Sugar. Both my daughter and myself loved this story (along with the cover).  It opens the eyes of its' reader to the people who are in need and also got me thinking, how would I or my children handle this situation if given? I could only hope I would have the strength and resilience that Sugar had to keep me going. I think this is a "just right book" for a mature/strong 10 year old reader - 13.~


you may also like:

  Close to Famous by Joan Bauer

Title: Almost Home
Author: Joan Bauer
Pub. date: September 2012, Viking Juvenile
Genre: realistic fiction, middle grade
Hardcover, 264 pgs.

Marty McGuire Digs Worms review

Marty McGuire's third-grade class has a special assignment: Save the Earth! Even more exciting, the best project wins a special award. Marty's pretty sure her classmates' ideas won't stand a chance against her plan to turn the garbage from the school cafeteria into fertilizer. All she needs is a little help from her teammate and best friend, Annie--and the worms in her grandma's garden.

When Marty arrives at school, there are three terrific things on the "Third-Grade Stars Today" list. First, it's Monday!  Next, Marty is the classroom helper for the week and lastly, a special assembly is scheduled before lunch. The students learn that the interesting person presenting is Amelia Ranidae, a woman who devotes her life to keeping the planet green. She has a special challenge for the school she calls the "Save the Earth Project". She encourages the students to each come up with a way to help the environment and will return in a few weeks to present an award for the best plan. Marty knows that she will have the best idea when she and Annie come up with a way to help reduce the amount of garbage thrown away in the cafeteria.  They set up a composting bin, with worms included, for the students food scraps. By observing daily, they will journal the progress they find. Unfortunately, it is turning out to be a longer process than Marty thought. She is trying hard to be patient but when a few things don't go as planned, Marty finds herself discouraged and wonders if this was the best idea for a project after all.

Marty Mcguire is a great character who doesn't mind rolling up her sleeves and getting her hands dirty in this book! This was a wonderful story that has a lot of learning potential for its' readers. I liked that it teaches young kids about the importance of taking care of our environment and inspiring awareness to keep our planet green. It offered a wide variety of vocabulary words pertaining to nature such as; habitat, indigenous,inhospitable, observation and environment, just to name a few. It also instructs the reader about building a composting bin and how worms play an important role in the fertilization process. All the kids in Marty's classroom came up with some very creative and funny ways to help the planet that stays true to a third grade classroom experience.  I also like that Marty makes mistakes and she learns and grows from them. There are also some wonderful adult characters where each one adds wisdom, guidance and encouragement, something kids really need in their everyday life. This is a nice chapter book series where the author really captures the spirit of the character giving her a believable voice that kids will not only find likable but learn something new as well. There is an introductory book called Marty Mcguire that kids may want to read first. I am looking forward to a third book someday hoping Marty's adventures keep going strong.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 8-9 .~

Title: Marty Mcguire digs worms!
Author: Kate Messner
Pub. Date: April 2012,  Scholastic
Genre: realistic fiction, chapter book
Paperback, 161 pgs.

Super-Sized Slugger a novel by Cal Ripken Jr. review

Thirteen year old Cody has a difficult adjustment when he moves from Wisconsin to his new home in Baltimore.  Being a "big guy" is tough for Cody and he worries if he will fit in at his new school.  Cody does have an incredible talent for baseball and he can't wait to try out for the local team, the Orioles. This adds more trouble when he vies for the same position as Dante, the school bully. The coach recognizes Cody's natural ability and places him at third base making Dante not only an unhappy teammate but classmate as well.  After showing the team what he can do on the field, Cody is finding it easier to make friends. Unfortunately, it is not as easy to get along with Dante.  Jessica, a neighbor girl who has spunk and an incredible sports talent herself, stands up to Dante when he threatens Cody one day at school. Cody and Jessica soon build a strong friendship that will include helping to solve a mystery. There is a rash of thefts occurring at the middle school by some inside or outside thieves and Cody has a strange suspicion of who it might be.  With everything happening all at once, Cody must prove to his classmates that the new kid in town can be more than meets the eye.

I think this is another great book from the Cal Ripken, Jr. series that could appeal to either boys or girls.  Just like in Hothead, this second book is full of sports lingo and subtle messages that kids can identify with but also adds the twist of a mystery. The main characters of Cody and Jessica are positive role models when it comes to standing up for yourself and for others.  Jessica jumps in and takes on Dante when the situation gets out of hand, showing courage to be a strong voice instead of being a quiet witness.  Cody also proves to the others they shouldn't judge a book by its' cover with his athletic ability and positive attitude. When trying to solve the theft ring, this part of the story had some good suspense and action to keep the reader engaged until the end. The story wraps itself up with a championship game that is full of excitement and expresses the importance of teamwork.  I also connected to many things mentioned in the storyline because I live in Wisconsin. There were many references to the City of Milwaukee and the Brewers, Prince Fielder, Ryan Braun ( yeah, MVP!), Miller Park Stadium and our local newspaper The Journal/Sentinel. I think that sparks excitement and great interest for kids when an author uses realistic references they know about and can relate to.  This book was quick and fast-paced and a good fit for a reluctant reader as well. I hope to see more books in the future about the team and its' characters because they could make for many positive learning experiences for its readers. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 10-13.~

Title: Super-Sized Slugger a novel by Cal Ripken, Jr.
Author: Cal Ripken, Jr. with Kevin Cowherd
Pub. Date: March 2012, Hyperion
Genre: middle grade, realistic fiction
Hardcover, 183 pgs.



You may also like:

  Hothead

Storm Runners Book 2: The Surge review

Chase and his friends Nicole and Rashawn have just survived Hurricane Emily, the storm of the century, but their troubles are just beginning. Although they've made it to the safety of Nicole's family's farm--the winter home of the Rossi Brothers' Circus--the floodwaters are rising and they need to reach higher ground. The circus's lions have escaped their cages, and a dangerous and unpredictable leopard is also on the loose. Have Chase and his friends lived through a terrifying night only to face a new disaster? (goodreads summary)



Chase and his two friends finally make it back to the safety of Nicole's farm after a harrowing night of survival from Hurricane Emily's force. Unfortunately upon their arrival, the floodwaters are rising and dangerous animals are at large roaming the farm. Besides facing these hurdles, "Pet" the circus elephant, is about ready to give birth to a new baby any minute. The generator is also on the brink of running out of gas and the barn they are in will be losing the lights within an hour. They need to get to Chase's dad's fifth-wheel where there are plenty of cans of gasoline available. The only thing that could be standing between them is Hector, the aggressive leopard and the thought of four other hungry lions lurking the grounds.

This book picks up right at the end where the first one left off.  The chapters bounce back and forth between Chase trying to get through the dangers of reaching the gasoline on the other side of the property, to his father trying to get back to the farm himself. It still has the same adventure and excitement moving along each chapter as in the first book. Especially when the leopard and lion came into the picture.  There were a few sad moments when some of the animals died and another had to be put down by Nicole herself. These elements in the story only add to the urgency of the situation and for their survival themselves. The birth of the baby elephant did seem a bit descriptive and I did get a clear picture of that, too.  Making it through rising floodwaters, wind and dangerous animals really put these kids to the test. I lost track that they were only middle schoolers at one time, as they managed to think out each situation with such a level-head and face it calmly.  Again, this book is quick and fast-paced with short chapters that may hook reluctant readers.  The first book in the series, Storm Runners, should definitely be read first to help give a good understanding of the storyline. These characters really have to survive a very long night only to prepare themselves for more adventure awaiting them in the third book of the series. I think this is a "just right book" for grades 6-8.~

Title: Storm Runners Book 2: The Surge
Author: Roland Smith
Pub. date: September 2011, Scholastic
Genre: adventure, middle grade
Hardcover, 133 pages


You may also like:

 Storm Runners - Book 1

Storm Runners Book 1 review

Chase Masters and his father are "storm runners," racing across the country in pursuit of hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods. But when the hurricane of the century hits, Chase will be tested in ways he never could have imagined. (goodreads summary)







Chase and his father never seem to stay in one place very long.  After the loss of Chase's mother and sister, his father decides to take his building skills on the move to become the Masters of Disaster.  When people need help in rebuilding their communities after a natural disaster strikes, Chase's father John and his helper Tomas' are there to assist. This time they are heading down to Florida in the wake of Hurricane Emily, predicted to hit the St. Petersburg area. Chase is used to relocating to different places quickly and starting new schools, never staying more than a few days. He will be residing with the Rossi family on their farm which is used as a winter haven for a travelling circus and several exotic animals.  On Chase's first day of school, he figures out that the hurricane will change routes and will hit exactly where he is staying in Palm Breeze, instead of the St. Pete's area 40 miles away as predicted. Not believing him when he tells the school Principal they are safer to remain at school, Chase and the students are sent home on the bus. A sudden gust of wind blows the bus off its wheels with Chase, Nicole Rossi and a third student Rashawn on board. The three must fight for their lives to survive the hurricane's force and make it safely to shelter before it is too late.

This story is full of high adventure and heart pounding elements that will keep its' reader hooked with every turn of a page. I think it may also appeal to reluctant readers because it is a fast-paced, short read that is quite thrilling.  I especially like books that portray characters who remain level headed and calm in situations of crisis. This survival story is not short on peril and the characters handled the many life threatening circumstances they came upon.  From pounding hurricane wind and rain, roads breaking away from under them to crossing a flooded refuge full of alligators, it was hard to imagine that this story is based in one day's time.  I found Chase, Nicole and Rashawn very knowledgeable and full of problem solving skills making them strong, likable characters.  I also found myself learning about hurricane's, survival skills and that Chase's go bag filled with items in case of a disaster is a good idea. The ending was a bit of a surprise cliffhanger, which I did not see coming. Some may not like the book ending the way it did. But then again, I view it as a way to keep kids interested in reading and having another book in hand.  The last chapter gave a little foreshadowing for the next book and I am looking forward to following the series. The second book, The Surge, is available now and the third, The Eruption, just came out this month. I think this is a "just right book" for grades 4-7.~

Title: Storm Runners
Author: Roland Smith
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Pub. date: March 2011, Scholastic Press
Hardcover, 143 pgs.

Mo Wren, Lost and Found review

This is the story of what happened after Fox Street.  Mo Wren knew that eventually she, her dad, and her sister would have to move from beloved Fox Street. She just never expected it to happen so soon.  At the Wrens’ new place, things are very different. The name of the street—East 213th—has absolutely zero magic. And there’s no Mrs. Petrone to cut her hair, no Pi Baggott to teach her how to skateboard, no Green Kingdom to explore. She’s having trouble fitting in at her new school and spending a lot of time using the corner bus shelter for her Thinking Spot. Worst of all, Mo discovers that the ramshackle restaurant Mr. Wren bought is cursed.  

Mo has lived her entire life on Fox Street and this is where she called home. After selling their house, her family moves to the city following her father's dream of opening a restaurant. Things are all so different now and she finds herself having a hard time adjusting to all the sudden changes. Her younger sister Dottie though seems to fit in quite well with her new classmates and surroundings. Mo misses the comfort of Fox Street but soon finds the local laundromat a place of warmth. She meets Carmella, the owner of The Soap Opera, who seems to have a small hidden secret, along with the many other people who frequent there. She becomes friends with Shawn, a boy from her class who seems to be full of nonstop energy and big stories. Her dad is working hard at making a new life for the Wrens but Mo has also heard rumor that the restaurant is cursed, only adding to the many worries she already has.  Finding a sense of place in her new home has challenging obstacles but she will soon find that it just may be what the Wrens need after all.

This wonderful book is a sequel to What Happened on Fox Street, which I read when it first came out a couple years ago. I thought it was a great book for kids and was happy to see a second one continue on with the Wren's story. Even if the first has not been read, you will easily pick up on the family's storyline. It gives a descriptive overview of the diverse characters back on Fox Street and gently touches on Mo's mother's death that brings you quickly up to speed. Mo's voice is truly believable from her feelings and thoughts of a child who experiences the loss of a parent or changes of moving to an unfamiliar place.  She is uncertain with her fitting in and looks back on what she misses most about Fox Street. Her changing life takes her to many characters in her new neighborhood who have wisdom, wit, personality and charm of their own. Each person is a story within itself and yet they show a great sense of community and what it means to be a good neighbor.  I mainly loved this book for it's wonderful writing. The author has a beautiful flair of style when it comes to words. For example one of my favorites:  - Some kindly giant hand found the sun's plug and connected it. If you closed your eyes and tilted your face, the backs of your eyelids prickled with color, and warmth brushed your brow and cheeks. In the park, green grass islands dotted the snowy sea. (pg. 124).   I actually envisioned it in my mind, feeling the well thought out meaning behind the words that the author was expressing to her readers through her writing talents. The story flowed with many sentences like these and not only will this help our children become better readers but writers as well. The story represents change is something that does happen but if you give it a chance it might turn out to be a good thing after all.  It is a heartwarming story about family, friendship, community, hard work, finding acceptance and most of all love.  I love books like these for our children and hope Mo's story continues on to become many new ones in the future.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 9-12.~

Title: Mo Wren, Lost and Found
Author: Tricia Springstubb
Pub. Date: August 2011, Balzer & Bray
Genre: realistic fiction
Hardcover, 248 pgs.
Book received from author in exchange for my honest review.

Wild Wings review

The majestic Osprey is an endangered bird that hasn’t been seen in Scotland for years, so when Iona McNair locates an Osprey nest, she’s desperate to keep the bird safe from poachers. She shares her secret with her classmate Callum, and the two become friends as they work to save the Osprey they’ve named Iris. They’re able to get the bird tagged by a preservationist, but after Iris flies to Africa for the winter, her signal becomes stagnant, then lost. Spurred by a promise to Iona, who has fallen ill, Callum is determined to track and save Iris, and a leap of faith and the magic of e-mail connects him with a girl in Gambia who can help him make good—in more ways than one. (goodreads summary)

Eleven year old Callum has a pretty decent life for a young boy living in Scotland. He has a good family, attends a good school, has two best friends and lives on a farm with sprawling woods and a river. One day, Callum and his friends find Iona McNair fishing in the farmsteads river. Iona is living with her grandfather whose family has a bad reputation around his village as being a thief among other things.  Iona claims to have a secret that she will share with Callum as long as he never tells anyone. She has located a family of Osprey, an endangered bird species, living on his family's property. Striking up an unlikely friendship, the two promise to keep the nest secret from others while watching over the nesting pair. Then suddenly one day, Iona and Callum find the female bird tangled in fishing line. In order to save it, they must decide on the risk of telling someone. Callum's father contacts Hamish from the local nature preserve. After freeing her, Hamish attaches a transmitter to the bird helping them track her whereabouts via the Internet.  When it is time for Iris to migrate in the winter to Africa, they will be able to track her route there and back again to Ireland in the spring.  When Iona unexpectedly becomes ill, Callum promises her he will watch over Iris. As Iris begins her journey to Africa, it is not an easy one but Callum's promise gives him extra determination to make sure she returns home again.

This inspiring story is for the nature lover and those that have a heart for saving our endangered animals. It is also a story about friendship, standing up and helping others in need as well as strength and determination for a cause.  The other kids made fun of Iona because of her background but Callum saw something in her the others did not. He saw the passion in her heart for saving the endangered Osprey family and her inner beauty through her drawings of them as well.  When it is time for Iris to migrate to Africa, Callum looses her signal and fears the worst.  In his determination, he sends out e-mails to locate somebody in Africa that would be willing to help locate her. He corresponds with a 10 year old girl, named Jeneba  from Gambia, who is in the hospital willing to enlist her family and village in the search for Iris. Through the Internet and e-mails, Callum deepens his friendship with her and Iris connects the two in more ways than one.  The book offers children a good perspective of other countries and how different they are from our own. Things we have at hand for us are not necessarily there for others as Callum had also learned. But even though Jeneba faces many personal challenges in her country, her village was willing to help someone they did not know miles away. It turns out, the people of Gambia feel the Osprey brings them good fishing when it returns to Africa every year and they welcome the birds presence.  Reading how the kids got their heads together to problem solve and also help others in need was inspiring. There were many moments of character development especially for Callum's friends who were a bit insensitive at times. The use of technology was a great demonstration of how children can connect different places and bring that diversity together. It had plenty of Scottish vocabulary words and a good sense of African culture.  At the back of the book, the author gave useful websites to learn more about the Osprey. I enjoyed this quick and easy read. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 9-12.~

Title: Wild Wings
Author: Gill Lewis
Genre: realistic fiction
Pub. date: April 2011 - Antheneum Books for Young Readers
Hardcover, 287 pgs.

Flutter: The story of four sisters and one incredible journey review

Big things are about the happen at Maple's house. Mama's going to have a baby, which means now there will be four Rittle sisters instead of just three. But when baby Lily is born too early and can't come home from the hospital, Maple knows it's up to her to save her sister. So she and Dawn, armed with a map and some leftover dinner, head off down a river and up a mountain to find the Wise Woman who can grant miracles. Now it's not only Lily's survival that they have to worry about, but also their own. The dangers that Maple and Dawn encounter on their journey makes them realize a thing or two about miracles-and about each other. (goodreads summary)

Maple is determined to help find a miracle to save her baby sister Lily who is born premature. Her heart is not strong enough and Maple knows that the Wise Woman of the Mountains is not just a Folklore but the miracle she must find to save Lily to help bring her home. The Wise Woman is known to be watching over a pool of miraculous water found in the Green Mountains of Vermont that is able to heal the sick back to health.  Maple sets out to find the special water but is interrupted by her eleven year old sister Dawn when she attempts to leave during the night. The girls decide to take a canoe down the river together to Peninsula State Park and from there this adventure story begins. During their 30 mile trip they encounter wild animals, poachers and the two embark on a dangerous journey together as the power of hope guides them to save their sister. 

I have read many adventure survival stories and feel that this debut novel was pretty good.  The story focuses on hope, love and true sisterhood. I enjoyed the writing style as it was very descriptive and placed me right alongside the two sisters journey into the wilderness. Many scenes were full of action and definitely heart pounding a couple of times. The adventures the two encountered did seem a little too intense for girls of such a young age of 9 and 11 though.  But then again, the author portrayed the characters with courage, being level headed and calm remembering their skills to problem solve instead of falling apart in harrowing situations. Stop and think first set the tone more than once when the girls reached a dangerous situation.  The story showed strength and the love of family along with some serious determination to help one another.  When the girls witnessed poachers in the fields killing a deer and owls, it could be something sensitive readers may find a little difficult to read.  I wanted to hurry past these parts quickly myself.  It did make for a fast paced and quick read.  I found myself picking up the book at any chance I could to see what happened in the end. I took away from the book enjoying the folklore and that believing in a miracle can happen. I would like to read more books by this author in the future. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 11 and up.

Title: Flutter
Author: Erin E. Moulton
Genre: realistic fiction, middle grade
Pub. Date: May 2011, Penquin Books
Hardcover, 200 pgs.