*A few months ago, I downloaded an E-Galley of this middle-grade novel. I started, but then got distracted with other books. When I saw the title on Audible, I decided to download it and listen.
What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:
*Oscar, an eighth grader, is grieving the loss of his sister while trying to gear up for another football season.
*Noah, an eighth grader, is transitioning from home school to attending public school.
*Riley, another eighth grader, is also new to the middle school, as her mother has relocated the two of them.
*These three middle-school students meet during their art class.
*Each has a story to share, a past to repair, and looking toward a better and brighter future.
What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
*My last few audible "listens" have been ok. This story was engaging, thoughtful, and enjoyable.
*I enjoyed "reading" about these three very different children and the developing friendships they formed.
*There was so much heart in the story which lead to a variety of feelings while I was listening.
*I loved that their relationships deepened while in a middle-school art class. So many similarities between life and art.
*Because of the strong characters, meaningful plot, and realistic resolutions; I can see this being used as a class read aloud which would lead to some wonderful discussions.
Who Should Read It:
Who Should Read It:
*The book should be placed in any and all classrooms between grades four and six. Because the characters are in grade eight, this is the perfect story for middle-school readers. As I mentioned, I think the novel would be terrific as a read aloud, but also just as strong to put in the hands of individual readers. Happy Reading!
Rating: 4 STARS out of 5 Stars!
