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amycmerrill's review against another edition
mysterious
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
I found the plot of this book to be all over the place.
kelleemoye's review against another edition
4.0
I love what Elana K. Arnold can do with a story! She is brilliant when it comes to weaving in secondary stories that often have way more impact than the reader realizes and for building secondary characters that leave a lasting impression.
In The House That Wasn’t There, I was struck with this talent again as I followed Alder’s and Oak’s life as they collide suddenly at the beginning of 6th grade and how their school project, a walnut tree, a dead possum, and adopted kittens all intertwine to help tell their story. The reader at times will wonder why certain things are happening or why something is being mentioned and then BAM it is revealed. It is quite fun to read! And with a bit of magical realism thrown in just for fun, a seemingly “normal” story becomes an extraordinary one!
It was also quite interesting how Arnold set up the chapters, alternating between Alder and Oak but in 3rd person. It helped keep the POV clear while also showing the reader a bit more about each of the character’s lives.
And finally: A shout out to Beck for not being what was expected; Faith for having a name, being a part of the story instead of the background, and being wonderful; and Mr. Rivera for being an innovative teacher that promotes collaboration, cross-curricular activities, and outside of the box thinking!
Full review with teaching tools: http://www.unleashingreaders.com/?p=19153
In The House That Wasn’t There, I was struck with this talent again as I followed Alder’s and Oak’s life as they collide suddenly at the beginning of 6th grade and how their school project, a walnut tree, a dead possum, and adopted kittens all intertwine to help tell their story. The reader at times will wonder why certain things are happening or why something is being mentioned and then BAM it is revealed. It is quite fun to read! And with a bit of magical realism thrown in just for fun, a seemingly “normal” story becomes an extraordinary one!
It was also quite interesting how Arnold set up the chapters, alternating between Alder and Oak but in 3rd person. It helped keep the POV clear while also showing the reader a bit more about each of the character’s lives.
And finally: A shout out to Beck for not being what was expected; Faith for having a name, being a part of the story instead of the background, and being wonderful; and Mr. Rivera for being an innovative teacher that promotes collaboration, cross-curricular activities, and outside of the box thinking!
Full review with teaching tools: http://www.unleashingreaders.com/?p=19153
thenextgenlibrarian's review against another edition
3.0
Two kids. Two cats. One stuffed possum come to life.
lisakimmence3's review against another edition
4.0
This was such a wonderful, uplifting book with just the right amount of magical realism thrown in. I really enjoyed it.
cjmedinger's review against another edition
4.0
A super fun story about family, pet ownership, being a friend, and general middle school shenanigans.
pippad's review against another edition
5.0
I'm not sure who told me to read this book, but I do know I'm grateful they did.
The story, yes for children, is a simple one about loss and not knowing what you are missing. It's about family, connection and has a rather cool house that wasn't there...
As it is for younger readers, it was an easy read, but left me feeling warm and squishy and telling every person I know to read it.
GO READ IT!
The story, yes for children, is a simple one about loss and not knowing what you are missing. It's about family, connection and has a rather cool house that wasn't there...
As it is for younger readers, it was an easy read, but left me feeling warm and squishy and telling every person I know to read it.
GO READ IT!
thenextgenlib's review against another edition
3.0
Two kids. Two cats. One stuffed possum come to life.
sarahd7276's review against another edition
4.0
I loved this wonderfully odd tale about two kids, Alder and Oak, whose lives magically intertwine as they come to learn the meaning and value of friendship and family.