The Places We Sleep by Caroline Brooks DeBois

How I Heard About It:

*I was able to download an electronic version of this upcoming middle-grade novel in verse.  The cover the title were intriguing to me and I was looking forward to the reading experience.  


What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:

1.  *The author takes the reader back to the year 2001, particularly September 11th.

2.  *Abbey and her family have moved again.  This time to Tennessee.  

3.  *Her father is in the military and being in the military during this time frame, was a scary prospect for American families.

4.  *Even though, Abbey's family is not near the terrorist locations, they are affected because Abbey's aunt was working in one of the towers.  

5.  *Not only must Abbey deal with emotional stress at home, but must also face some challenging situations while at school.  

What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
1.  *This was a fast read and a different "take" on the 9/11 experience.

2.  *As I read, I kept thinking how accessible the story and topic would be to young readers.  

3.  *I loved the format and the writing worked so well for the story line.  

4.  *The author did a wonderful job of putting the reader inside a family dealing with a national tragedy.  

5.  *Abbey was an authentic character and showed real strength, courage, and perseverance.  

Who Should Read It:
*I would recommend the book for readers in grades four through six.  The middle-school reader would also be great and be able to relate to Abbey's experiences, feelings, and revelations.  If you are, or know of a reader, who gravitates toward 9/11 stories, then title must be put on the TBR list.  Happy Reading!  


Rating:  4 STARS out of 5 Stars