4.13 AVERAGE


Heartwarming, and sweet. I'll definitely read the next installment of the Vanderbeekers.

Closer to 4.5 stars.

Sweet but not cloying story of a family with five children who are having to move out of their Harlem brownstone right after Christmas and their attempts to convince the landlord to let them stay.

It was so easy to fall in love with this family and their community. Such a heartwarming and charming story.

I loved the Vanderbeekers!! When the family finds out their lease isn’t being renewed and they need to move out of their beloved New York City brownstone, the kids all devise a plan to win over their grumpy reclusive landlord who lives on the third floor. Adorable, heartfelt hijinks ensue! A 2022 Bluestem nominee, and the first book in a series. Ages 9 and up.

Just what I needed for this difficult Christmas. A quick read that made me smile, folded up in the messy, loving energy of the Vanderbeekers and their community.

The story was just ok, but it definitely made me want to live in a brownstone on 141st Street.

I read a lot of teen books but this was my first middle grade in a while and I absolutely adored it! It's just an adorable story with great characters and detail. This fit my need for a few pages before bed read perfectly. I really hope it becomes a family movie someday I think it could be a great
emotional inspiring lighthearted relaxing medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

This one has been on my radar since its release because the author is one of my favorite contributing editors at Book Riot. But.....when Amy Poehler optioned it for film AND it was a Kindle deal, well it moved way to the top of my list. Although predictable at times, this is totally a heart warming story with great characters and lots of love. If you want to feel good, pick this one up!
emotional funny hopeful medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes