Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Julie M. Prince

Several families on the small island where Tess lives have taken in foster children so that their island school has enough kids to remain open. Tess has a new big brother, Aaron, and has high hopes that he'll want to stay with her family. Not only would it mean she wouldn't have to move away from all the people and things she's known her whole life, but she'll also have someone besides her pest of a little sister to hang out with at home.

Great measures must be taken to be sure Aaron wants to stay and put his troubled past behind him.

It's the poignancy that draws in readers of Cynthia Lord's books. But it's more than just that. As with her Newbery Honor winning Rules, description and word-choice are top-notch in this new book, without being the slightest bit overbearing.

Lord has a rare "Judy Blumesque" way of writing from a real kid viewpoint that all middle grade authors strive for but few truly nail.

I like that Tess has two loving parents who are involved without guiding/steering the story. It's clear that Tess is the one calling the shots, for better or worse.

All in all, another beautifully written story from Cynthia Lord...one that sneaks up touches the hearts of her readers.

Off to turn another page....