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Recommend this book:
Grace's Mane Event
A Middle-Grade Novel About Courage, Change, and the Many Ways We Define Family for Ages 9 - 12
Anna Maria DiDio
2026 Honorable Mention
216 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
It is the first day after Christmas at Oakdale Middle School in Chicago, and pressure is already mounting on Grace, a seventh-grader. Her friend Andy is not happy about how his reunion with his absent biological mother, Angela, went. He wants Grace to help him arrange another meetup. Her best friend Charlotte is having trouble at home and needs Grace’s help. After her parents divorced, her mother’s new boyfriend moved into their house with his daughter and has been making Charlotte’s life difficult. But that’s not all. Grace learns that her cousin Maisie is flying in from Scotland to live with Grace’s family because her parents had a huge fallout. Maisie, too, wants Grace to help her understand the reason behind her parents’ disagreement. Grace must rely on her support efforts, dubbed KISSS and KEEP, and her new hobby, dressage, to solve her friends’ problems. How? Find out in Grace’s Mane Event: Family Knots, Book Two by Anna Maria DiDio.
If you are looking for a preteen novel blended with drama, realism, and suspense, Grace’s Mane Event by Anna Maria DiDio is a worthy pick. Treating me to a dramatic introduction, DiDio dropped me in the middle of Grace’s world and dilemma. The storyline moves at a deliberate pace, giving room for the characters’ daily activities and moments of reflection and tension. It helped me bond with the characters and understand their situations. The author highlights how the choices parents make affect preteen kids domestically, socially, and psychologically. As I followed the three kids dealing with their unfortunate circumstances, I could see the compassion and understanding in children that most parents take for granted. Charlotte is willing to put up with Steve and his antagonizing behavior for her mother’s sake. She is young but understands her mother’s fear of being alone and makes compromises for her. Kids will learn how to be good friends through Grace. There are secrets, deception, plot twists, and more in this second installment in the Family Knots series.
It is the first day after Christmas at Oakdale Middle School in Chicago, and pressure is already mounting on Grace, a seventh-grader. Her friend Andy is not happy about how his reunion with his absent biological mother, Angela, went. He wants Grace to help him arrange another meetup. Her best friend Charlotte is having trouble at home and needs Grace’s help. After her parents divorced, her mother’s new boyfriend moved into their house with his daughter and has been making Charlotte’s life difficult. But that’s not all. Grace learns that her cousin Maisie is flying in from Scotland to live with Grace’s family because her parents had a huge fallout. Maisie, too, wants Grace to help her understand the reason behind her parents’ disagreement. Grace must rely on her support efforts, dubbed KISSS and KEEP, and her new hobby, dressage, to solve her friends’ problems. How? Find out in Grace’s Mane Event: Family Knots, Book Two by Anna Maria DiDio.
If you are looking for a preteen novel blended with drama, realism, and suspense, Grace’s Mane Event by Anna Maria DiDio is a worthy pick. Treating me to a dramatic introduction, DiDio dropped me in the middle of Grace’s world and dilemma. The storyline moves at a deliberate pace, giving room for the characters’ daily activities and moments of reflection and tension. It helped me bond with the characters and understand their situations. The author highlights how the choices parents make affect preteen kids domestically, socially, and psychologically. As I followed the three kids dealing with their unfortunate circumstances, I could see the compassion and understanding in children that most parents take for granted. Charlotte is willing to put up with Steve and his antagonizing behavior for her mother’s sake. She is young but understands her mother’s fear of being alone and makes compromises for her. Kids will learn how to be good friends through Grace. There are secrets, deception, plot twists, and more in this second installment in the Family Knots series.
Recommend this book:
Cusp Born
Lorraine Hawley
2026 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Cusp Born by Lorraine Hawley follows thirteen-year-old Abreel, raised in Callosum, a city that sorts children by Zodiac sign and elemental ability. Those who lack sponsors live as Forsaken under strict supervision. Abree is labeled Aries and expected to master fire, but her power behaves unpredictably. When a public incident exposes that she can wield more than one element, enforcement agents known as the Umbra move in to seize her. Sent away to survive, Abree escapes the city with a younger child and finds refuge among hidden youths born between Zodiac signs, called Cusps. Hunted for what she is and barred from protection, Abree must learn why her abilities exist and what place she can claim in a world built to exclude her.
Lorraine Hawley’s Cusp Born is a wonderful fantasy, written with a unique astrological angle that I absolutely loved. Abree is a protagonist who has grit and exhibits firm agency even when nobody, including her, believes she has any. This is most apparent when she chooses true responsibility, negotiating belonging among the Forest Children, supporting others when her own place remains uncertain. Vekor is adorable, and through his bond with Abree, the story finds its humanity in protection, patience, and shared survival. The illustrations, original black and white sketches by Jocie Salveson, breathe visual life into Hawley's words. That said, the settings of places like the guarded pyramid with shifting corridors and ritual space are practically cinematic. Overall, this is a brilliant read with a huge, amazing twist of an ending. Recommended.
Cusp Born by Lorraine Hawley follows thirteen-year-old Abreel, raised in Callosum, a city that sorts children by Zodiac sign and elemental ability. Those who lack sponsors live as Forsaken under strict supervision. Abree is labeled Aries and expected to master fire, but her power behaves unpredictably. When a public incident exposes that she can wield more than one element, enforcement agents known as the Umbra move in to seize her. Sent away to survive, Abree escapes the city with a younger child and finds refuge among hidden youths born between Zodiac signs, called Cusps. Hunted for what she is and barred from protection, Abree must learn why her abilities exist and what place she can claim in a world built to exclude her.
Lorraine Hawley’s Cusp Born is a wonderful fantasy, written with a unique astrological angle that I absolutely loved. Abree is a protagonist who has grit and exhibits firm agency even when nobody, including her, believes she has any. This is most apparent when she chooses true responsibility, negotiating belonging among the Forest Children, supporting others when her own place remains uncertain. Vekor is adorable, and through his bond with Abree, the story finds its humanity in protection, patience, and shared survival. The illustrations, original black and white sketches by Jocie Salveson, breathe visual life into Hawley's words. That said, the settings of places like the guarded pyramid with shifting corridors and ritual space are practically cinematic. Overall, this is a brilliant read with a huge, amazing twist of an ending. Recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Heart of a Leader
Dr. Josh McConkey
2026 Silver Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite
The Heart of a Leader is an inspiring children’s picture book written by Dr. Josh McConkey with illustrations by Yakovetic. It follows Gabe, a young boy who loves playing soccer and caring for his friends. Although he is not the tallest or fastest member of his school’s soccer team, Gabe is the heart of the team. He is an outstanding leader who ensures that every person feels welcome and supported. He greets any newcomer, motivates players, and if they lose the game, he is always ready to console them. If someone ridicules his team, he does not seek revenge but, on the contrary, consoles his team members. Furthermore, when his team wins, he shows respect to his competitors. Join Gabe and his friends to learn more about the qualities that make a true leader.
The Heart of a Leader is an amazing story that shows children the values of effective leadership through interesting characters and situations. All kids will like Gabe as he is very loving and empathic, and is also someone they can root for. His teammates and friends are characters that any child can easily identify with as they get excited, discouraged, and sometimes just need a helping hand. Their teamwork and ability to keep going even when they have been knocked down are what stood out about them. Dr. Josh McConkey’s narration brings everything to life. The language is clear and smooth, and makes reading easier for children. What really ties it all together are the illustrations with bright colors that attract attention and expressions that convey characters' emotions excellently. Small details like Gabe cleaning up after a game are heartwarming. The book has interactive activities that can be performed both in the classroom and at home in a smaller setting. They demonstrate that good leadership entails uplifting people so that there is accomplishment through mutual efforts. I enjoyed reading this book. It is a good choice for anyone who wants to teach their kids about friendship and leadership.
The Heart of a Leader is an inspiring children’s picture book written by Dr. Josh McConkey with illustrations by Yakovetic. It follows Gabe, a young boy who loves playing soccer and caring for his friends. Although he is not the tallest or fastest member of his school’s soccer team, Gabe is the heart of the team. He is an outstanding leader who ensures that every person feels welcome and supported. He greets any newcomer, motivates players, and if they lose the game, he is always ready to console them. If someone ridicules his team, he does not seek revenge but, on the contrary, consoles his team members. Furthermore, when his team wins, he shows respect to his competitors. Join Gabe and his friends to learn more about the qualities that make a true leader.
The Heart of a Leader is an amazing story that shows children the values of effective leadership through interesting characters and situations. All kids will like Gabe as he is very loving and empathic, and is also someone they can root for. His teammates and friends are characters that any child can easily identify with as they get excited, discouraged, and sometimes just need a helping hand. Their teamwork and ability to keep going even when they have been knocked down are what stood out about them. Dr. Josh McConkey’s narration brings everything to life. The language is clear and smooth, and makes reading easier for children. What really ties it all together are the illustrations with bright colors that attract attention and expressions that convey characters' emotions excellently. Small details like Gabe cleaning up after a game are heartwarming. The book has interactive activities that can be performed both in the classroom and at home in a smaller setting. They demonstrate that good leadership entails uplifting people so that there is accomplishment through mutual efforts. I enjoyed reading this book. It is a good choice for anyone who wants to teach their kids about friendship and leadership.
Recommend this book:
Lola Gillette and the Summer of Second Chances
Brave Girls Collection
Kimberly Behre Kenna
2026 Silver Medal
170 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Richard Prause for Readers' Favorite
Kimberly Behre Kenna's Lola Gillette and the Summer of Second Chances follows thirteen-year-old Lola after she gets caught stealing and is sent to stay with her reclusive uncle, Milo, for the summer. Milo lives in a rundown mansion filled with old secrets, puzzle doors, forbidden rooms, and memories of his late wife. Lola is dealing with deep guilt over losing her twin sister, Vinnie, and she hopes that completing the Perfect Pairs Collection she once started with her sister will somehow fix the mess she’s in. While exploring the mansion and the overgrown gardens, Lola befriends Kya and learns more about the town, the house, and her family. Together, Lola and Kya attempt to restore life to the gardens and help Milo reconnect with the outside world. Will they succeed in their mission? Also, will Lola find the missing “perfect pair” she needs before the summer ends?
Lola Gillette and the Summer of Second Chances by Kimberly Behre Kenna is a warm and heartfelt children's book. It is easy to connect with, even while the story deals with serious topics like grief, guilt, and rebuilding trust. The setting of an old Connecticut mansion surrounded by woods and gardens creates a gentle, mysterious atmosphere that is neither scary nor intimidating. Kenna's writing style is clear and inviting, and the light fantasy elements add charm without taking away from the emotional moments in the story. Lola grows in believable ways, and the relationships she builds with Milo, Kya, and the community show how healing can come from small acts of care. The book reminds me of middle-grade stories where children learn to face challenging emotions through building friendships and going on heartwarming adventures. If you or your child likes hopeful stories, books depicting family themes, or gentle mystery novels, you'll definitely find this one meaningful and enjoyable.
Kimberly Behre Kenna's Lola Gillette and the Summer of Second Chances follows thirteen-year-old Lola after she gets caught stealing and is sent to stay with her reclusive uncle, Milo, for the summer. Milo lives in a rundown mansion filled with old secrets, puzzle doors, forbidden rooms, and memories of his late wife. Lola is dealing with deep guilt over losing her twin sister, Vinnie, and she hopes that completing the Perfect Pairs Collection she once started with her sister will somehow fix the mess she’s in. While exploring the mansion and the overgrown gardens, Lola befriends Kya and learns more about the town, the house, and her family. Together, Lola and Kya attempt to restore life to the gardens and help Milo reconnect with the outside world. Will they succeed in their mission? Also, will Lola find the missing “perfect pair” she needs before the summer ends?
Lola Gillette and the Summer of Second Chances by Kimberly Behre Kenna is a warm and heartfelt children's book. It is easy to connect with, even while the story deals with serious topics like grief, guilt, and rebuilding trust. The setting of an old Connecticut mansion surrounded by woods and gardens creates a gentle, mysterious atmosphere that is neither scary nor intimidating. Kenna's writing style is clear and inviting, and the light fantasy elements add charm without taking away from the emotional moments in the story. Lola grows in believable ways, and the relationships she builds with Milo, Kya, and the community show how healing can come from small acts of care. The book reminds me of middle-grade stories where children learn to face challenging emotions through building friendships and going on heartwarming adventures. If you or your child likes hopeful stories, books depicting family themes, or gentle mystery novels, you'll definitely find this one meaningful and enjoyable.
Recommend this book:
Overruled
Christy Wopat
2026 Gold Medal
260 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Overruled by Christy Wopat follows a fifth-grader named Thomas McGregor, affectionately called Mac, who has developed a reputation for getting into trouble, a habit that has followed him since kindergarten. As he starts fifth grade, his parents wish him luck and remind him of his promise to make fewer trips to the principal’s office. His dad even sweetens the deal with a trip to the Classic Car Show to enter Stella, his 1969 Mustang Mach 1. Fifth grade begins much the same, with Mac back in Principal Lor’s office for throwing spaghetti, shoving Holden on the playground, and having emotional outbursts because he believes everyone, kids and teachers alike, dislikes him. The only adult who consistently believes in him is his teacher, Ms. J. But when his best friend, Julia, gets hurt on the monkey bars and there are no witnesses, all fingers point to Mac. With no working cameras to clear his name, he agrees to a mock trial in class with Ms. J as the judge. Readers will follow along to learn the truth.
Christy Wopat created a meaningful and engaging narrative filled with valuable, teachable moments. Ms. J stood out as the teacher who rooted for Mac even when the principal viewed him as the “troubled kid.” Mac’s character was relatable as he learned to regulate his emotions instead of reacting impulsively. His strained friendship with Julia was equally realistic; he felt jealous at the thought of losing her to Alex, yet deeply concerned when he learned her fall caused another concussion. The mock trial reinforced the idea that everyone deserves a fair chance, free from past judgments. Readers who enjoyed Those Kids from Fawn Creek by Erin Entrada Kelly or It’s Me, Jaxon! Can You See Me? by L.B. Anne would equally enjoy Overruled.
Overruled by Christy Wopat follows a fifth-grader named Thomas McGregor, affectionately called Mac, who has developed a reputation for getting into trouble, a habit that has followed him since kindergarten. As he starts fifth grade, his parents wish him luck and remind him of his promise to make fewer trips to the principal’s office. His dad even sweetens the deal with a trip to the Classic Car Show to enter Stella, his 1969 Mustang Mach 1. Fifth grade begins much the same, with Mac back in Principal Lor’s office for throwing spaghetti, shoving Holden on the playground, and having emotional outbursts because he believes everyone, kids and teachers alike, dislikes him. The only adult who consistently believes in him is his teacher, Ms. J. But when his best friend, Julia, gets hurt on the monkey bars and there are no witnesses, all fingers point to Mac. With no working cameras to clear his name, he agrees to a mock trial in class with Ms. J as the judge. Readers will follow along to learn the truth.
Christy Wopat created a meaningful and engaging narrative filled with valuable, teachable moments. Ms. J stood out as the teacher who rooted for Mac even when the principal viewed him as the “troubled kid.” Mac’s character was relatable as he learned to regulate his emotions instead of reacting impulsively. His strained friendship with Julia was equally realistic; he felt jealous at the thought of losing her to Alex, yet deeply concerned when he learned her fall caused another concussion. The mock trial reinforced the idea that everyone deserves a fair chance, free from past judgments. Readers who enjoyed Those Kids from Fawn Creek by Erin Entrada Kelly or It’s Me, Jaxon! Can You See Me? by L.B. Anne would equally enjoy Overruled.
Recommend this book:
Mumageddon! And the Food Magician
Sonya Anise
2025 Finalist
96 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Miche Arendse for Readers' Favorite
Mumageddon! And the Food Magician by Sonya Anise is the chaotic, comical, and heart-warming book you didn’t know you needed. This brilliantly crafted rhyming tale is a mischievous masterpiece that will have readers of all ages laughing, gasping, and occasionally cringing in delight. The story follows a young boy whose stepmother bans him from the kitchen and sends him to a boarding school in Scotland. Armed with nothing but his food magic, he’s determined to make the most of his unfortunate circumstances while causing as much chaos as he can. What crazy concoctions will he brew up? You’ll have to read and find out.
Mumageddon! And the Food Magician by Sonya Anise is a fun and rambunctious book with silliness reminiscent of some of Roald Dahl's works. The playful verses, coupled with vibrant illustrations, make this book an absolute joy to read, even for an adult. It’s the kind of story that begs to be read over and over again, with each read bringing new laughs and insights to discover. Sonya's journey to bring this tale to life is nothing short of inspiring, and I think it’s a testament to the power of following your passion that she was able to publish this 25 years after having written the book. Overall, this is the kind of book that will make children, parents, and hopefully even stepmothers laugh. I think it’s a great book for any family to own and one that can be enjoyed no matter the age range of the reader.
Mumageddon! And the Food Magician by Sonya Anise is the chaotic, comical, and heart-warming book you didn’t know you needed. This brilliantly crafted rhyming tale is a mischievous masterpiece that will have readers of all ages laughing, gasping, and occasionally cringing in delight. The story follows a young boy whose stepmother bans him from the kitchen and sends him to a boarding school in Scotland. Armed with nothing but his food magic, he’s determined to make the most of his unfortunate circumstances while causing as much chaos as he can. What crazy concoctions will he brew up? You’ll have to read and find out.
Mumageddon! And the Food Magician by Sonya Anise is a fun and rambunctious book with silliness reminiscent of some of Roald Dahl's works. The playful verses, coupled with vibrant illustrations, make this book an absolute joy to read, even for an adult. It’s the kind of story that begs to be read over and over again, with each read bringing new laughs and insights to discover. Sonya's journey to bring this tale to life is nothing short of inspiring, and I think it’s a testament to the power of following your passion that she was able to publish this 25 years after having written the book. Overall, this is the kind of book that will make children, parents, and hopefully even stepmothers laugh. I think it’s a great book for any family to own and one that can be enjoyed no matter the age range of the reader.
Recommend this book:
Sophia and the Dragon-Eye Charms: The Secret of Okaas
Beth Christopherson
2025 Honorable Mention
231 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Sophia and the Dragon-Eye Charms: The Secret of Okaas is a children's fantasy novel by Beth Christopherson. Sophia is drawn into a magical adventure three years after the death of her brother, Seth. Gifted with powerful heart magic born from her compassion, she’s chosen by nature spirits to wield the green dragon-eye charm, which holds the essence of love. As parasitic creatures called Buhkranks threaten both humans and nature, Sophia must master her newfound powers and confront a tough decision that could risk the very essence of love itself. With the help of fairies, elves, and other magical beings, she faces a race against time to save the world.
Author Beth Christopherson crafts a rich, imaginative world filled with magical creatures, drawing readers into a captivating fantasy universe that feels instantly warm and welcoming. There’s something so inclusive and enthusiastic about every facet of this work, from the sensitively penned dialogue to the uplifting descriptions of people and places that Sophia encounters on her journey. The novel expertly balances heartfelt themes of grief, love, and determination to heal and survive, making Sophia’s emotional journey intensely touching and empowering. The vibrant cast of ensemble characters is utterly charming, offering whimsical and meaningful nuggets of advice and wisdom that will stay with readers long after they’ve set the book down. The plot is packed with interesting twists that are never too sensationalized, and always have a sincere core message. Overall, Sophia and the Dragon-Eye Charms is a captivating work of fantasy fiction that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a wholesome and empowering family-friendly adventure.
Sophia and the Dragon-Eye Charms: The Secret of Okaas is a children's fantasy novel by Beth Christopherson. Sophia is drawn into a magical adventure three years after the death of her brother, Seth. Gifted with powerful heart magic born from her compassion, she’s chosen by nature spirits to wield the green dragon-eye charm, which holds the essence of love. As parasitic creatures called Buhkranks threaten both humans and nature, Sophia must master her newfound powers and confront a tough decision that could risk the very essence of love itself. With the help of fairies, elves, and other magical beings, she faces a race against time to save the world.
Author Beth Christopherson crafts a rich, imaginative world filled with magical creatures, drawing readers into a captivating fantasy universe that feels instantly warm and welcoming. There’s something so inclusive and enthusiastic about every facet of this work, from the sensitively penned dialogue to the uplifting descriptions of people and places that Sophia encounters on her journey. The novel expertly balances heartfelt themes of grief, love, and determination to heal and survive, making Sophia’s emotional journey intensely touching and empowering. The vibrant cast of ensemble characters is utterly charming, offering whimsical and meaningful nuggets of advice and wisdom that will stay with readers long after they’ve set the book down. The plot is packed with interesting twists that are never too sensationalized, and always have a sincere core message. Overall, Sophia and the Dragon-Eye Charms is a captivating work of fantasy fiction that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a wholesome and empowering family-friendly adventure.
Recommend this book:
Real Spies Don't Use Rowboats
Jeffrey H Hope, Dr. Maria Cahill
2025 Bronze Medal
214 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats by Jeffrey Hope is a heartfelt, humorous, and charming ode to childhood adventure. The story follows two brothers, John and Sam, who live in a quiet coastal town in Maine. They spend their summer on imaginative adventures inspired by their love of James Bond. Their lives change when their outboard motor, Evin, is destroyed by the Johnson boys, who run it without oil. The boys are devastated but receive a smaller outboard motor from their Aunt Susan for Christmas. Despite its slower speed, they continue their adventures and learn valuable lessons about resilience, friendship, and the importance of taking care of what matters to them. The story is filled with humor, sibling dynamics, and the joys and challenges of growing up in small-town America.
This is an engaging tale of youth’s creativity and resilience. Jeffrey Hope expertly captures his young protagonists’ humor, innocence, and determination. Through their misadventures, the boys learn teamwork, perseverance, and the value of looking out for one another, even as they argue over who gets to be James Bond for the day. Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats is a fun book for young adults and anyone who grew up in the pre-technology era when playing outside was a part of everyday life. The nostalgia is deeply ingrained and will bring back pleasant childhood memories. It’s a reminder of the power of imagination and the joy of finding summer-day adventures. Hope rekindles the carefree days of childhood with engaging prose and laugh-out-loud moments. Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats is a book you’ll want to read again and again. I know I will.
Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats by Jeffrey Hope is a heartfelt, humorous, and charming ode to childhood adventure. The story follows two brothers, John and Sam, who live in a quiet coastal town in Maine. They spend their summer on imaginative adventures inspired by their love of James Bond. Their lives change when their outboard motor, Evin, is destroyed by the Johnson boys, who run it without oil. The boys are devastated but receive a smaller outboard motor from their Aunt Susan for Christmas. Despite its slower speed, they continue their adventures and learn valuable lessons about resilience, friendship, and the importance of taking care of what matters to them. The story is filled with humor, sibling dynamics, and the joys and challenges of growing up in small-town America.
This is an engaging tale of youth’s creativity and resilience. Jeffrey Hope expertly captures his young protagonists’ humor, innocence, and determination. Through their misadventures, the boys learn teamwork, perseverance, and the value of looking out for one another, even as they argue over who gets to be James Bond for the day. Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats is a fun book for young adults and anyone who grew up in the pre-technology era when playing outside was a part of everyday life. The nostalgia is deeply ingrained and will bring back pleasant childhood memories. It’s a reminder of the power of imagination and the joy of finding summer-day adventures. Hope rekindles the carefree days of childhood with engaging prose and laugh-out-loud moments. Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats is a book you’ll want to read again and again. I know I will.
Recommend this book:
Grace's Write Time
Anna Maria DiDio
2025 Silver Medal
213 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
It’s difficult enough being in middle school and trying to balance the friendship circles with real life. Grace is in Grade 7, and she’s not sure who to label as her friends. In Anna Maria DiDio’s Grace’s Write Time, Grace reaches out to lonely seniors, writing them newsy letters about her life. Then she finds out her family has to move to Chicago and the friends she thought were friends abandon her. It’s like starting all over again. She’s on a mission with her new friend, Andy; a secret mission to help him find his birth parents. She also has her letter-writing campaign. Even if the seniors never write back, Grace feels good about writing things down. She’s writing her memoir, and who knows if anyone will read it. Not that it matters. The important thing is that she’s writing. As she admits later in the story, “I had to be happy first, doing the things that were good for me.” What was good for her was writing stories in a letter.
Maria DiDio’s middle-grade novel, Grace’s Write Time, is a powerful statement of what it means to experience those growing-up years. The story is told in the first person narrative, from Grace’s point of view, and follows Grace as she progresses through so many difficult times, including a move that takes her away from all that’s familiar. Using the art of writing letters, Grace finds a means to identify herself and to make things matter. I love how the author includes Grace’s letters, which help develop the plot. The detective work, helping her new friend, Andy, adds yet another dimension to the struggle young people undergo in identifying themselves. Self-identity is very important at this age as is friendships, another powerful aspect of this story. Through the art of letter-writing, Grace identifies herself as a strong person, one who cares about herself, her life, her family, and her friends. A great read.
It’s difficult enough being in middle school and trying to balance the friendship circles with real life. Grace is in Grade 7, and she’s not sure who to label as her friends. In Anna Maria DiDio’s Grace’s Write Time, Grace reaches out to lonely seniors, writing them newsy letters about her life. Then she finds out her family has to move to Chicago and the friends she thought were friends abandon her. It’s like starting all over again. She’s on a mission with her new friend, Andy; a secret mission to help him find his birth parents. She also has her letter-writing campaign. Even if the seniors never write back, Grace feels good about writing things down. She’s writing her memoir, and who knows if anyone will read it. Not that it matters. The important thing is that she’s writing. As she admits later in the story, “I had to be happy first, doing the things that were good for me.” What was good for her was writing stories in a letter.
Maria DiDio’s middle-grade novel, Grace’s Write Time, is a powerful statement of what it means to experience those growing-up years. The story is told in the first person narrative, from Grace’s point of view, and follows Grace as she progresses through so many difficult times, including a move that takes her away from all that’s familiar. Using the art of writing letters, Grace finds a means to identify herself and to make things matter. I love how the author includes Grace’s letters, which help develop the plot. The detective work, helping her new friend, Andy, adds yet another dimension to the struggle young people undergo in identifying themselves. Self-identity is very important at this age as is friendships, another powerful aspect of this story. Through the art of letter-writing, Grace identifies herself as a strong person, one who cares about herself, her life, her family, and her friends. A great read.
Recommend this book:
Armando and the Amazing Animal Race
Diana Schaffter
2025 Gold Medal
350 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Armando and the Amazing Animal Race by Diana Schaffter is a wonderfully crafted middle-grade read with a touching story and compelling environmental message. Central to the narrative is Armando, a twelve-year-old boy, who sets off on an exciting journey across continents with his eccentric grandmother to capture photographs of endangered species in just 70 days. This race has significant value—bringing families together, exposing individuals to different cultures, and fostering a genuine passion for environmental protection. Schaffter tackles critical issues like environmental justice and climate change in a way that young readers can understand, inspiring them to consider their part in safeguarding our planet. The intergenerational bond between Armando and his grandmother adds a delightful dimension to the narrative, illustrating how relationships can flourish through shared experiences and mutual respect for nature.
Diana Schaffter’s writing effortlessly weaves elements of adventure, mystery, and humor, making the book both entertaining and educational. As readers follow Armando's journey, they are introduced to exotic locations and fascinating wildlife facts seamlessly integrated into the narrative, enhancing the story without overwhelming it. Armando and the Amazing Animal Race’s descriptive imagery transports readers across the globe. Each chapter pushes the story forward and deepens the connection to the characters and their mission, making it hard to put the book down. This book is excellent for youngsters who are apprehensive readers as it mixes suspense, adventure, laughs, and learning to hold their attention. The images throughout add fun and educational value. The story highlights the importance of family, friendship, and the need to act as earth stewards. It's an excellent resource for classroom reading and discussion. I highly recommend it to middle-grade readers and adults.
Armando and the Amazing Animal Race by Diana Schaffter is a wonderfully crafted middle-grade read with a touching story and compelling environmental message. Central to the narrative is Armando, a twelve-year-old boy, who sets off on an exciting journey across continents with his eccentric grandmother to capture photographs of endangered species in just 70 days. This race has significant value—bringing families together, exposing individuals to different cultures, and fostering a genuine passion for environmental protection. Schaffter tackles critical issues like environmental justice and climate change in a way that young readers can understand, inspiring them to consider their part in safeguarding our planet. The intergenerational bond between Armando and his grandmother adds a delightful dimension to the narrative, illustrating how relationships can flourish through shared experiences and mutual respect for nature.
Diana Schaffter’s writing effortlessly weaves elements of adventure, mystery, and humor, making the book both entertaining and educational. As readers follow Armando's journey, they are introduced to exotic locations and fascinating wildlife facts seamlessly integrated into the narrative, enhancing the story without overwhelming it. Armando and the Amazing Animal Race’s descriptive imagery transports readers across the globe. Each chapter pushes the story forward and deepens the connection to the characters and their mission, making it hard to put the book down. This book is excellent for youngsters who are apprehensive readers as it mixes suspense, adventure, laughs, and learning to hold their attention. The images throughout add fun and educational value. The story highlights the importance of family, friendship, and the need to act as earth stewards. It's an excellent resource for classroom reading and discussion. I highly recommend it to middle-grade readers and adults.
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