Middle Grade Book Reviews
The Great Weather Diviner
By Rob Long & Andrew Dolberg
The Great Weather Diviner is an exciting fantasy, with wonderful animal characters, lots of suspense and important themes.
Kids will enjoy traveling with Phillip the groundhog, as he ventures into a scary hostile world of Erda. He learns about natural disasters, life’s inequities, and sets out to right the wrongs of his family. Phillip discovers his own courage, meets new friends and a new way of life. This is a wonderful coming of age story about family, community, consequences and good vs. evil. Continue...
Bea and the New Deal Horse
By L.M. Elliott
Bea and the New Deal Horse is a compelling story of persistence, resilience, and survival for Beatrice and her sister Lizzie, as well as for the adults. The story takes the reader on a journey into an important time in our history, the Great Depression.
Elliott weaves historical events and social issues of the time into an engaging story of a woman, a horse and a girl's determination to thrive. Against all odds, Bea and Mrs. Scott set out to save the estate that has been in the family for generations. Through many trials, and with the help of the horses, they discover the courage to face down the challenges of the day.
This is a wonderful coming of age story that brought me to tears.
Lizzie Flying Solo
By Nanci Turner Steveson
Lizzie Flying Solo is a Middle Grade novel that girls will love. Lizzie faces hard times with her family and friends but learns how to accept herself and trust again with the help of a horse and a community. This is a heartfelt story, about a family in crisis written with depth and real understanding. The author brings all the characters to life, including the animals. Being a horse lover myself, I admired the accurate portrayal of the horses, horse care and the people at Birchwood Stables. Continue...
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