By: Holly Goldberg Sloan
Libby audiobook 7 hours
Read by: Robin Miles
Published: 2013
Genre: YA realistic fiction / coming-of-age
This book was intriguing! Willow Chance is an extraordinary 12 year old, probably on the autism spectrum as a very high-functioning intellectual. Initially, I wasn't a huge fan. But as we get to know Willow and the people in her world, the big life-changing event and how she navigates it becomes more and more fascinating. Ultimately, I loved this book and would gladly read it again!
Dell Duke - the pathetic counselor / therapist hired by the school district to work with at-risk kids
Patty Nguyen - manicurist / business owner / mom
Mai - Patty's strong teen daughter who loves fashion
Quang-ha - Mai's sullen, troublemaker brother who's also a gifted artist
Jairo - taxi driver who becomes Willow's friend
Lenore - social worker who's determined but overworked and rules-oriented
I don't want to give too much away, but there are so many different themes and ideas in this book: botany, classifying people, living your dreams, belonging, honesty, . . .
I recommend this book but wonder if it would appeal to middle schoolers (presumably the target audience, given the protagonist's age).
