A review by kristinreader111
Countdown by Deborah Wiles

5.0

I was captivated by this documentary novel, set in 1962 during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Franny, the 5th grade main character, felt honest and real as she narrated her experiences with air raid drills, an aging loony-at-times uncle, her sister's mysterious absence, and her friendship troubles and new crush. The documentary images, song lyrics, and radio transcripts added to the reality of the novel. Highly recommended.