Reviews

The Paris Project by Donna Gephart

kimmiefmrcn's review against another edition

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

darklord135's review against another edition

funny lighthearted reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

aered59's review against another edition

hopeful lighthearted reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.5

readingthroughtheages's review against another edition

4.0

A story that will stay in your heart for awhile. Cleveland is a character that you can’t help but cheer for as she navigates her new life while her father is in jail. She has amazing support from her mother and sister but is finding anyone who knows her from school is turning her back on her. Even her best friend, Declan, has a secret.
But as long as Cleveland concentrates on her Paris Project - the steps she’s going to take to get her to attend the American School of Paris and move there - she’ll be able to get through everything, right?

melmo2610's review against another edition

3.0

This kids book caught my eye because of the Paris connection (I love ALL things Paris!). I related to Cleveland with her love of Paris and enjoyed the story. She went through a lot of hard times in the book but she never gave up and she was there for those she loved and they were there for her as well. After all the hard times, things got better for Cleveland and her family and the story ended well., which was my favorite part. Fun read!

carolinewarlick's review

1.0

DNF

toryhallelujah's review against another edition

4.0

Cute, charming, and funny. Deals with an incarcerated parent and a friend coming to terms with their sexuality in an easy-to-digest way for middle-grade readers.

barberchicago_books's review against another edition

4.0

Not anything like I expected, and that’s such a great thing. The cover and the back story will draw readers in, and the details of Cleveland’s poignant, yet realistic story will keep them reading. The backmatter with information on kids who have an incarcerated parent was thought-provoking and will lead to many questions about prejudice and equality in this country. A definite add to our classroom library.

sophiarvi's review against another edition

4.0

I need Declan and Todd in my life

mldavisreads's review against another edition

5.0

Middle Grade Realistic Fiction. Cleveland Potts is a 7th grade student is Sassafras. Florida who lives with her mother and sister in a mobile home community. Her dad used to live with them, but he has been sent to jail after stealing from his boss (and Cleveland) to support his gambling addiction. Cleveland dreams of going to Paris, where she can live in a world of culture and not have to face the shame of her father's legacy. She has a list-- including ballet, Impressionism, and more that will help her prepare for her future in France. Her sister has her own dreams of getting out, which primarily include going to the University of Vermont.

There are French phrases throughout the story, which was fun for me. The spirit and resilience of the Potts women is remarkable as all three of them work themselves like crazy to provide for the family and support their dreams. This story debunks the myth that those in poverty are lazy and shines a light on the darkness faced by many children who have a parent behind bars. I can't recall any other middle grade stories that deal with this issue. Beautifully written, and full of love and hope despite difficulties.