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rawlibrary's review against another edition
5.0
First of all, this book is a whole lot deeper and better than the cover would have you believe. But I still posted a cover pic so you know what to look for on the shelf.
I LOVED IT. I've been on a bit of a middle reader kick at the moment, switching up from my usual YA benders. Davina Bell is an absolute treasure, and so are the characters she creates. They are smart, fully formed, characters I look forward to reading more of as the series progresses.
Small touches (apart from the cover 😬😬) ground it in middle grade. The quirky business names (mate, sign me up for Yoga in a Toga) keep humour running throughout, and the cartoonish nasty mayor definitely feels like something for primary and intermediate age kids rather than fledgling teens. But the story itself, and the depth of the characters and the challenges they have faced could just as easily been placed in a YA environment with a little tweaking – but I'm glad it didn't. This is smart writing that doesn't talk down to its audience while still playing with elements that will draw in the less robust readers. Davina Bell is a children's editor as well as author, and I think that inherent deep understanding of what kids can manage at different stages really elevates the story too. It's heavier than you would think, so perhaps preread or at least flick through if you have an especially gentle soul, but it's truly excellent.
And I have to agree with Davina's self-allocation as a Sophia with a touch of Belle. Me too, e hoa, me too.
I just wish the cover did the story justice, but I'm gonna handsell the fudge out of this one. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I LOVED IT. I've been on a bit of a middle reader kick at the moment, switching up from my usual YA benders. Davina Bell is an absolute treasure, and so are the characters she creates. They are smart, fully formed, characters I look forward to reading more of as the series progresses.
Small touches (apart from the cover 😬😬) ground it in middle grade. The quirky business names (mate, sign me up for Yoga in a Toga) keep humour running throughout, and the cartoonish nasty mayor definitely feels like something for primary and intermediate age kids rather than fledgling teens. But the story itself, and the depth of the characters and the challenges they have faced could just as easily been placed in a YA environment with a little tweaking – but I'm glad it didn't. This is smart writing that doesn't talk down to its audience while still playing with elements that will draw in the less robust readers. Davina Bell is a children's editor as well as author, and I think that inherent deep understanding of what kids can manage at different stages really elevates the story too. It's heavier than you would think, so perhaps preread or at least flick through if you have an especially gentle soul, but it's truly excellent.
And I have to agree with Davina's self-allocation as a Sophia with a touch of Belle. Me too, e hoa, me too.
I just wish the cover did the story justice, but I'm gonna handsell the fudge out of this one. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
maddydaisy's review
5.0
This book is so full of heart and warmth. The friendship of the girls and the strength of their community make Sunnystream and all of its eccentric and brilliant characters come alive. It balances real life struggles with honesty and humour, never shying away from difficult topics or patronising the readers. One of the best middle grade fiction books of the year.
gillyreads's review
5.0
This is a Full-Heart book. Running out to get a copy for my 9yo sister asap.
Full review coming.
Full review coming.
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