The Mending Summer by Ali Standish

How I Heard About It:
*I am a HUGE fan of Ali Standish.  If you haven't read her previous novels, then you MUST.  She writes an emotional and touching story.  I was thrilled when I was able to download an e-galley of her upcoming middle-grade novel.


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

*Georgia is dealing with a lot.  She loves her father, but she isn't too thrilled about "Shadow Man" who appears more and more often.

*She is surprised when her mother suggests she spend time at her great-aunt's farm out in the country.  Georgia agrees with some reservations.

*Once out at the farm, Georgia and her aunt begin to get to know each other while slowly opening up about their own lives.

*One day, during a walk, Georgia stumbles across a magical lake.  It is while she is at the lake, she meets another lonely girl named Angela.  

*The two girls form a special friendship while testing the limits of the magic that lake seems to provide those around it.


What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:

*I so enjoyed reading the book and was so happy the story measured up to the top-notch material Ali has previously written.

*The magical elements combined with "real life" provided for a one of a kind reading experience.

*I can't remember reading a middle-grade novel dealing with a parent's alcoholism, but this will be an important story for many young readers.

*The difficult subject matter was handled with grace, dignity, and thoughtfulness.  

*Everyone deserves an "aunt" like Ali portrayed within the pages and I could so easily picture her in my mind.  

Who Should Read It:
*Just as with Ali's other novels, this new one could be shared in fourth, fifth, and/or sixth grade.  The readers will be touched by Georgia's story and intrigued by the magic.  I would also say the book could be used with all middle-school students.  Happy Reading!  

Rating:   5 STARS out of 5 Stars