Fourth Grade Journey

A Fourth Grade Teacher's Journey Through the World of Books

Sunday, March 12, 2023

The Fire, The Water, and Maudie McGinn by Sally J. Pla

How I Heard About It:
*I love Sally J. Pla novels.  Sally, herself, was kind enough to send me an ARC of her upcoming middle-grade novel.  The book will be released July 11, 2023.  You are in for a real treat when you read the story.


What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:
*Maudie has one life with her mother and step-father in Texas.

*She has another life with her father in California.

*Maudie is so excited to spend summer with her dad.  After a forest fire, the two of them end up in a coastal community making the best of a difficult situation.

*Maudie has something she wants to share with her dad, but isn't sure how.

*She meets some new friends, both young and adult, and begins to find a new courage and strength.


What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
*This was such an enjoyable read.

*The character of Maudie was one of a kind young female and I found myself rooting for her throughout the entire reading of the story.

*I loved how she was able to be her true self with her father.  They had such a special relationship.

*The relationships between Maudie, her mother, and step-father were difficult to read about, but author Sally Pla did a wonderful job of writing with sensitivity.  

*Reader will be drawn to the beautiful cover first, but will be left with an even more beautiful and touching story.


Who Should Read It:
*Readers in grades four, five, and six are definitely need to read the novel.  I also think it could be used in any and/all middle-school settings.  Happy Reading!


Rating:
   4 STARS out of 5 Stars


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