memoandradee's profile picture

memoandradee's review

3.0

CAWPILE: 6.29/10 - 2.5/5

Estoy en conflicto con este libro, siento que hay una parte de mí que aprecia lo que el autor hizo con el proceso de autodescubrimiento de Bug, como tú como lector puedes ver desde afuera lo que esta pasando dentro de su cabeza. Sobretodo siendo adulto.

Pero creo que el libro lucha consigo mismo con la exploración del duelo y auto-descubrimiento, siento que al ser dos temas muy grandes e importantes ninguno es explorado muy a fondo.

Me gustó el libro pero siento que me faltó un poco más, no sé si más páginas o crecer a Bug a una edad más para YA que para middle grade.

mlhahn's review

5.0

I loved this book first for the Northern Vermont setting. Then I loved it for my middle school me who never felt like she fit in. Then I loved it for the accepting mother and friends, and for a middle school that I hope exists (or will come to exist) for kids like Bug. I also love it for affirming for me that ghosts are real.
anniedeereads's profile picture

anniedeereads's review

5.0

This fast middle grade read will be a breakthrough novel. I haven't read anything that's so necessary for kids and adults in this country right now. The story of Bug and his slow journey into self-awareness and acceptance is a must add to classroom libraries.

It is challenging to provide a review without giving away the beautiful story and journey, which the reader really must experience for themselves. The angst and discomfort Bug feels in his own body at the beginning is tangible. You will feel uncomfortable in your own skin purely by reading his inner thoughts. You can see his destination before he can, and will be cheering and pushing him into the right direction.

The death of beloved Uncle Roderick at the beginning of the book provides a secondary character that we don't actually get to meet. Roddy has been a father figure to Bug his whole life. This continues after his death as the ghost and haunting of his uncle helps Bug to his ultimate realization. I'll admit that, although an interesting way to help a character along, the ghosts and hauntings were not my cup of tea. I feel that this story would have been interesting, emotional and moving without the distraction of a paranormal element. It may be beneficial to getting middle grade readers to pick up this book and delve into it.
hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

westernstephanie's review

4.0

This was SO GOOD.
robbishreads's profile picture

robbishreads's review

4.0

A ghost story and trans realization story wrapped together in a very encouraging and introspective middle-grade novel. Low on conflict but strong with empathy and understanding, Bug's supernatural experience blends perfectly into a realistic world where no one should be afraid to find out who they are.

Transphobic/homophobic readers or parents won't be fooled, it's 75% trans realization story 25% spooky ghost tale, and its introspective nature may turn off readers looking for a little more adventure, but anyone, child or adult, willing to give it a shot will find a heartfelt narrative.
jess_bergeman's profile picture

jess_bergeman's review

4.0

I thought it was a good story though the ending felt very idyllic and I worry about the kids who experience much different responses. If I consider it from the lens of how we *should* respond with acceptance of others then I can appreciate it as the authors hope that it might serve to model appropriate inclusive behavior to readers from all walks.

audioline's review

4.25
emotional funny hopeful mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
melinda63's profile picture

melinda63's review

5.0

I do love a YA novel! I think the blend of a ghost story, loss, coming of age, identify, and the complexities of life…is nothing short of brilliant! Bug had a very special relationship with his uncle…and now his uncle has passed…but he’s also still around and has a message for Bug!!

llyrrhiannon's review

5.0

Absolutely beautiful and I wish every middle school carried it