It's not often that I read a book in 24 hours, even kidlit, but that's what I did with Glory Be by Augusta Scattergood.
From Amazon:
As much as Gloriana June Hemphill, or Glory as everyone knows her, wants to turn twelve, there are times when Glory wishes she could turn back the clock a year. Jesslyn, her sister and former confidante, no longer has the time of day for her now that she’ll be entering high school. Then there’s her best friend, Frankie. Things have always been so easy with Frankie, and now suddenly they aren’t. Maybe it’s the new girl from the North that’s got everyone out of sorts. Or maybe it’s the debate about whether or not the town should keep the segregated public pool open.
There were so many things I loved about this book:
--The voice and setting. Scattergood captured the diction and feel of the south. Glory had a great voice that made me want to stay with her awhile.
--The characters. Glory was one of the most interesting characters I've read in awhile. Impulsive, loyal, and caring. I really was rooting for her, especially as she took on the racist elements in her town.
--The heart. This book had heart in spades. I was not surprised to learn that much of it was based on the author's own experiences in the south. Her passion seeped through the pages.
This book reminded me a little of The Help but for kids.
Have you read any marvelous middle grades lately?
For more middle grade suggestions, see Shannon Messenger's blog.
Yes! I loved this book. It's been a while since I read it, but calling it The Help for kids is such an apt description! And isn't it interesting how often a middle grade character is impulsive or headstrong?
ReplyDeleteThat's so true. I think there's a lot of spunky middle grade characters, because you need a main character with a lot of agency. (They're also more interesting to read about.) It's an amazing feat when a writer creates a quiet character (like Mattie in Hound Dog True) who still drives the story.
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