It’s July … and there are still three more weeks of the school year. It’s simply not right. As our principal had to deal with three separate shenanigan incidents yesterday it occurred to me that these kids should be on summer vacation!
For those of you enjoying summer already, I have a perfect summer read. Tracing Stars by Erin E Moulton, ideal for middle grade readers, takes place in a coastal New England town. This story is funny and sweet and full of action. There is a lost pet – a soda loving golden lobster – The Lobster Monty Cola, behind the scenes peeks at working in a theater, a treehouse, and true conflict. (And! The funniest scene ever with a nod to the movie Alien.) It’s a story about friendship and family – and being true to yourself.
Indie Lee Chickory is a spunky heroine not afraid to take action. Even when her action leads to various messes and problems. There is also a great cast of interesting characters – Bebe, Indie Lee’s older sister desperate to be “perfect”; Owen, the brainy curious new friend; Sloth, the scary prop manager; as well as the various neighbors of Plumtown – and each character has their own agenda and own story arc evolving throughout the simultaneously funny and sweet story.
Enjoy!
Sarah Wones Tomp
WRITING ON THE SIDEWALK
The book sounds enchanting, the sort I’ve been longing for. Thanks for sharing.
Oh good! Summer time is reading time, in my mind!
Thanks for the recommendation, Sarah. I’m always looking for good middle grade reads! Have you read WONDER by R.J. Palacio? For me, it was a heart-stopper, and I had to add it to my “canon.” And yes, summer is always too short.
Oh me oh my, yes I have read it – and know exactly what you mean.
Sounds like a great book. What are you still doing in school? That is not right:)
I know! School in July? Ugh! The beauty of a year-round school schedule.
Thanks so much for recommending, Sarah!
I, also, cannot believe school is still in session! Bleh, run!
Beautiful jacket art and design!