Just Like That by Gary D. Schmidt

Just Like That by Gary D. Schmidt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh did I love this Gary D. Schmidt book so so much! The writing, the characters, and the 1968 setting were optimal for an authentic middle grade read! Meryl Lee Kowalski's life has been turned upside down with the death of her best friend and her parents decide to start her fresh at a prep school, away from the grief and possibly problems at home. But it is at St. Elene's Preparatory Academy for Girls where Meryl Lee tries to find out who she is by participating in sports (a hoot!), writing, and artwork. As lonely and despondent as she is, she runs into a kindred soul in Matt Coffin (who acts like her dead best friend) who has a horrid past he is running from. And each time he runs, those he has come to care for are in danger. I could not put this book down!!! The beauty in Schmidt's writing was present in nature with both Meryl Lee and Matt reveling in the sea, the shore and skipping stones. Many of the teachers were authentic and sympathetic with changes abounding as time goes by. I loved the characters of Dr. MacKnockater and the sea captain, the servants Betty and Althea and the Vietnam War was woven seamlessly throughout this wonderful novel that burns with warmth and humanity. Highly recommended and I loved seeing the characters from his other novel, Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy in this book too!

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