I decided to read Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen because, although it is a middle grade book, I wanted a chapter novel to read to my unborn son. I found it to be delightful and heartwarming. 

Flipped tells that tells the story of Bryce and Juli, two young neighbors whose perspectives on life and each other gradually change over the years. From the moment Juli first lays eyes on Bryce, she is smitten. Her admiration for him is unwavering, even as Bryce struggles to understand her quirky and independent nature. Through alternating perspectives, Van Draanen skillfully explores the complexities of young love and friendship, showing how misunderstandings and preconceived notions can shape our relationships. 

Several times throughout reading the novel aloud, I turned over to find my partner tearing up. So just a warning, it can be emotional - the novel doesn't just portray children, it also showcases someone with developmental disability and how that impacts a family, being poor, and what it means to be a good parent from both a parent's and a child's perspective. It's a little sappy at times... 

At its core, "Flipped" is a story about growing up and discovering who you are. It's about learning to see beyond the surface and to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the world around you. Now that I've finished reading it, I still intend to read it a few more times - when my son is born, and later on when he can read himself! This is a great bonding book, and I hope my son enjoys it as much as I enjoyed reading it to him...who knows, maybe it'll be a beloved novel in our family for generations.