A review by bethreadsandnaps
Almost Flying by Jake Maia Arlow

adventurous hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

  13 year old Dalia meets fellow swimmer Rani who will be moving to her school for the upcoming school year. When her father stuns her with some news, Dalia invites Rani to go on an adventure to several amusement parks. Will sparks fly between these two teens on their adventure?

As a parent, the set-up for the adventure in this book makes no sense. It’s forced and unrealistic. However, I have relatively few other quibbles except for general 13 year old angst that comes through in spades. This book had a great message to get out there and experience life. And I loved all the references to amusement parks, though I have never been to any of the amusement parks mentioned. I need to rectify that!