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cjdeb's review
4.0
This book deals gracefully and almost poetically with a very difficult issue - homelessness, particularly of families with children. Straightforward but not simplistic, this novel makes you instantly attached to the protagonist, and follow him with interest throughout. Though the ending seems a little abrupt, it is still quite satisfying. Altogether, a beautiful book.
hayitshaley's review
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
sad
fast-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? No
4.0
cjroyg's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
danne789's review
2.0
The book is well written. I like the way some characters use a word like gratuity, and then explain what it is, so that any kid reading it will be able to learn something. But this book hurt my heart. It was just sad the whole time. I actually cried at the end. I read books for the fairytale happy endings, not for sad, real life endings. But in all seriousness, as a book for kids, the way the book ends left a bad taste in my mouth. I don't know that I would recommend it for an 8-12 year old.
breakfastgrey's review
4.0
This book very much fits in with Ivan and Wishtree in terms of style and content. While not quite as good as Ivan, I enjoyed it a good bit more than Wishtree. It was a bit of an understated read, but I think that fit the story well. It didn't need a big climax because these types of issues don't necessarily lend themselves to one.
29kaylee's review
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
relaxing
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75
It was a pretty good book. Sometimes it was a little confusing but it was a very good book.
bickie's review
3.0
In the summer before he starts 5th grade, Jackson knows something is going on with his family's finances. Why is there so little food? Why do Jackson and his 5-year-old sister Robin have to fill up a paper bag with their favorite things and let the rest be sold in a yard sale? Robin is especially sad to see her trash can go, and Jackson thinks his room looks bare without all the furniture and bed frame. Are they going to have to live in the minivan again? Things get really weird when Crenshaw shows up again after a long absence. Jackson is not an imaginary friend type; he is pragmatic, likes facts, and has very little imagination. Is Crenshaw real? Or all in Jackson's head? Or both? Best for ages 10-12 (identity questions, conscience, child required to act as adult)
4saradouglas's review
3.0
I ended up liking the cover much more than I liked the book itself. I think maybe it's just too low of a level... I didn't get enough substance from it. Every page has so few words and each chapter is so short. I just really wanted more. The ending was sad, but Applegate really could have led up to it better. I did appreciate that the ending wasn't out of the ordinary or unrealistically positive.