Miracle by Karen S. Chow

Karen S. Chow’s expert characterizations flow and the climax in Miracle is both beautiful and coherent, giving readers the sense of truthfulness of life’s circumstances, while at the same time creating a story that is not too heavy or bogged down by traumatic material. There may be controversy over whether or not a story surrounding death and trauma is good for children to read. But, in my opinion, if written correctly by tying in themes of love, friendship, and strength throughout the book, as Chow does, children will benefit from reading the type of material written in Miracle and realize that they are not alone. … More Miracle by Karen S. Chow

Picture a Girl By Jenny Manzer

Addie’s voice is very compelling, and she explains her life as an eleven-year-old in a beautiful way. She’s fiercely protective of her brother Billy and is also incredibly practical, having been forced to grow up at such a young age. The descriptions and sensory detail in this book are so honest and real that I was entirely transported into Addie’s world while reading. Manzer does an amazing job at writing about a girl who has experienced things kids should never have to experience in a very age-appropriate way. … More Picture a Girl By Jenny Manzer