All of Me by Chris Baron

All of Me by Chris Baron
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ari is a big boy; he is big like his mother and grandmother, bullied, self conscious with few friends. I was compelled to journey with Ari as he sees his artist mother and salesman father's marriage fall apart, how he cherishes friendships with Pick, Jorge and Lisa and his summer with them in a seaside town. But as he is bullied Ari struggles with his image, is set upon by bullies (but does nothing to stop their punches and kicks) Ari descends even further into depression. Ari's relationship with the rabbi as he readies for his bar mitzvah was hopeful since his parents were never around and the few times he talks to the rabbi help him through his agonizing self hatred. I rooted for Ari in a world where he receives little parental help and care but finds support and worth in his friendships and himself. Deeply unsettling, compelling and much needed reading; highly recommended.

View all my reviews

Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh was this book just so beautiful, cute and a must read. I have seen it on so many lists, recommendations, and now that I have read it, I understand why. Jessica Love's picture book is just perfect for diverse authenticity, the message of self acceptance by Julian's grandmother, Abuela, is perfect! I recommend all children, adults, school teachers, counselors will thoroughly enjoy this gorgeously illustrated book about wonder, family and community!

View all my reviews

Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan

Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just as I have loved and continued to think about Willow Chance in Holly Goldberg Sloan's Counting by 7s, I am so in love with hilarious Julia Marks and will continue to think about her as such a special individual (her love and continued sorrow over losing her beloved dog, Ramon tore me us), thoughtful but also inwardly thinking about herself (what middle school child doesn't think self-centeredly about themselves?), funny, honest, and likable youngster who is a mover and a shaker. Julia is small, don't dare call her short, and now her mom has gone and signed her (and brother, Randy) up to audition for The Wizard of Oz. Thinking her summer was going to be a bust; Julia and Randy thrive as munchkins, Julia really takes to the director, Shawn Barr, who is always excited about everything to do with the show. Julia enjoys Olive, a self assured dwarf who partners with Olive for the show. Even more surprising, Julia becomes enthralled with neighbor, Mrs. Chang- her house is unbelievable- she has "cool stuff" an animal puppet collection, a coffee table made out of silverware, and a life-size buffalo made out of buttons...and Mrs. Chang has been in theatre and offers to make the munchkin and flying monkey costumes, as long as she can also be a flying monkey. As Julia becomes immersed in this summer theatre, her world changes, she changes, and the people she meets become role models re-shaping Julia. LOVED this book, just like I LOVED Counting by 7s. I can't wait for more impressive Holly Goldberg Sloan books, kids, teens, adults must all read -laugh and love the irrepressible Julia Marks!

View all my reviews