*This new middle-grade novel came to me via the publisher, Dial Books (PRH). I had viewed many positive comments on social media about the story so I was excited to read.
What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:
*Malian is a Boston middle-school girl who is visiting her grandparents on the Wabanaki reservation.
*She is about to set off for home, when the Coronavirus hits and the world is shut down.
*Malian isn't too worried about the pandemic and takes solace with her grandparents and the tradition and culture of their people.
*One day a dog from the reservation shows up at their doorstep and befriends Malian. She names the dog Malsum.
*Malian learns from her grandparents that the dog has shown itself to protect and support her during a difficult time.
What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
*The writing was beautiful and told in free-verse.
*This was the first story I've read that was set during the time of Covid-19.
*Even though the writing was sparse, the story packed a punch full of emotion, character development, and life lessons.
*As a reader, I enjoyed learning about the Wabanaki way of life.
*Even though the story was set during the pandemic, that was not the central force of the story.
Who Should Read It:
Who Should Read It:
*I'm thinking of using this book as one of my class read alouds during the 2021/22 school year. I think the novel could be used in grades four, five, or six. Middle-school readers would also be ideal for the story. Happy Reading!
Rating: 4 STARS out of 5 Stars
Rating: 4 STARS out of 5 Stars
No comments:
Post a Comment