It was an excellent read. After learning it was voted as winner of the Silver Birch award this year by kids, and witnessing Alex Lyttle in action at #olafestivaloftrees, I knew I wanted to experience this story myself.
I can’t believe that a novel so heartbreaking, endearing, tragic and moving was voted for by so many children, yet I can because I can understand how relatable the novel must be to them. It covers themes of Cancer, grief, friendships, parent relationships, family dynamics, bullying, being the new kid, and personal guilt. The writing is top notch. It’s a quality read for children in the 9 and up category, but it’s really a novel I’d recommend to adults too. Plus anyone who was a kid in the 90s (like me) will relate to Cal, Aleta, and Sammy’s love for the Goosebump book series.
Also it takes place near London ON #mycity and the author grew up here!
I highly recommend this book because it’s honest and beautiful. In a way it reminds me of Bridge to Terabithia, because it’s just a wonderful book that stays with the reader after it’s closed.