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This book is an absolute must-read for upper elementary and middle grade readers!! Bug is a wonderful character and the story was so beautifully told. Get ready to feel all the feelings!
Oh my god I cry.
This was so beautiful. Lovely way of writing and just such a straightforward way to explain something very simple. My heart warms thinking of Bug’s journey.
This was so beautiful. Lovely way of writing and just such a straightforward way to explain something very simple. My heart warms thinking of Bug’s journey.
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This is such a beautifully told and important story. The brief length (under 200 pages) I hope will mean that reluctant readers will pick it up and appreciate Bug's journey. It has a lot to say about identity and loss that will resonate with LGBT middle schoolers and their allies.
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
3.5 stars
🌕🌕🌕🌗
🌕🌕🌕🌗
🧠 My thoughts
This book is an undeniably heart-warming read for trans kids, offering a much-needed sense of affirmation and light-heartedness. Its approachable tone and positivity shine through, making it a comforting story for younger readers. The book's ability to gently tackle identity while keeping things joyful is truly commendable.
That said, I didn’t quite find it relatable on a personal level. Despite the warmth, it didn’t resonate deeply in my heart or linger long after I finished reading. It felt like it skimmed the surface of emotions and experiences, leaving me wishing for more depth or a stronger emotional connection.
👍 What I like
That said, I didn’t quite find it relatable on a personal level. Despite the warmth, it didn’t resonate deeply in my heart or linger long after I finished reading. It felt like it skimmed the surface of emotions and experiences, leaving me wishing for more depth or a stronger emotional connection.
👍 What I like
- Heart-warming and affirming for trans kids
- Maintains a light-hearted, positive tone
- An easy and approachable read for younger audiences
👎 What I don’t like
- Didn’t feel personally relatable
- Lacked emotional depth, leaving little lasting impact
- Struggled to leave a strong impression after finishing
The cover isn’t as pretty as the covers of the books I’ve read recently but this book was amazing and beautiful. Small windows into what grief feels like and what it means to find out who you are.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. I loved this story about grief and finding yourself. Bug and Bug’s mom are mourning the loss of her uncle, who lived with them and was at the center of Bug’s world. Bug is also preparing for middle school, feeling like Bug doesn’t quite belong with the other girls Bug’s best friend Moira hangs out with. Oh, and Bug is certainly being haunted by Uncle Rodrick’s ghost. As Bug makes some discoveries that summer, Bug finds peace and a confidence Bug didn’t know was inside. Under 200 pages and great for grades 5-7. #mglit #audiobook #librarian #librariansofinstagram #middleschoollibrarian #lgbtqreads
I picked it up for the ghost story but.....
This is my pick for Newbery 2022. I love this book so much. The unique voice and sensitive depiction of exploring/discovery your identity and navigating transition (not physically but the more important emotionally and mentally) resonated with personal experience. A story that shows wide acceptance of queer identities in a real world, completely believable setting is refreshing, necessary, and life-saving.
This is my pick for Newbery 2022. I love this book so much. The unique voice and sensitive depiction of exploring/discovery your identity and navigating transition (not physically but the more important emotionally and mentally) resonated with personal experience. A story that shows wide acceptance of queer identities in a real world, completely believable setting is refreshing, necessary, and life-saving.
Age: Middle School
LGBTQ: Gay uncle,
Tough Issues: Death of an uncle/father-figure
A unique telling of an oft-written coming-of-age gender awakening story. Masterfully executed and an amazing addition to queer lit. Required reading for all.
LGBTQ: Gay uncle,
Spoiler
Trans male main characterTough Issues: Death of an uncle/father-figure
A unique telling of an oft-written coming-of-age gender awakening story. Masterfully executed and an amazing addition to queer lit. Required reading for all.
A ghost story featuring a middle school student.
Spoiler ahead: important and positive book about trans people.
Spoiler ahead: important and positive book about trans people.