Review Detail

One of my newest Spinelli favorites, Will Tuppence who loves science and his friends experiences many emotions, challenges, and changes; it is through him that I could feel my own heart flutter at times and break when his did. 

"Riley picked his nose", his sister taunts as Mi'su gives grave news of proton decay.  Will must face the fact that this means that the world may not go on forever, not only that, BT and Mi-Su have a special relationship; in addition to that news of secrets of other encounters and dangerous endeavors BT has taken on cause Will to become more jealous.  Will it break their friendship?  His focus becomes weakened with his constant tormenting of his sister and his mind preoccupied by BT and Mi-Su, especially when it comes time to practice for his chess tournament.  A tragic accident occurs that takes a toll on everybody.  It is through this that Will learns and grows.

Taka look at Smiles to Go by Jerry Spinelli, I definitely recommend this book, I read this book with my fifth grade students and initially started it with them and then quickly finished to make sure it wasn't inappropriate.  The second day I came to school, my eyes puffy, and I told them that I cried straight through to the end, not because I was totally sad, but because it was happy, and I was completely satisfied.