How I Heard About It: The time is here for summer reading. That means more book exchanging with my Twitter #bookexpedition group. This was the first book that came to via my Nerdy peeps. I read it this afternoon and enjoyed the story.
What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:
1. *Ari's story was told in verse. The writing was beautiful and full of imagery.
2. *He is struggling with his self worth and most of this stems from his body weight. Ari has always been heavy and life hasn't been easy because of this.
3. *Not only does Ari have to deal with his weight, but he is noticing things are "different" between his parents.
4. *The story takes place during the summer after seventh grade and the start up of eighth grade. Ari wants it to be a summer of "change" and get his life back on track.
4. *Ari takes this journey of change with several friends. Some of which have a positive impact and some may have a negative one.
What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
1. *I was thrilled to receive this novel from #bookexpedition. I had seen positive reviews, loved the title, and thought the cover was beautiful.
2. *The reading experience was a refreshing change because I haven't read a novel in verse in quite some time.
3. *I'm glad that this story is out in the world as most "weight" issue stories focus on females. It was refreshing to read about a boy experiencing these types of problems.
4. *'Ari was one character that was real, flawed, and one the reader could sympathize with.
5. *The themes/messages/lessons of the story are a bit more on the mature side. When I was reading it as a middle grade story, I felt it was too mature. After changing my view point and looking at it more for the middle-school and/or high school reader, I enjoyed it more.
Who Should Read It: The book is marketed for readers in grades 3-7, but after reading it, I think it would have more appeal for a reader in grades six and above. I think those readers would be able to relate to Ari on a deeper level. Happy Reading!
Rating: 4 STARS out of 5 Stars!
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