Books Like...

Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea by Ashley Herring Blake is a poignant middle-grade novel that delves into themes of grief, trauma, and healing. The story follows Hazel, a young girl dealing with immense sadness and guilt after her mother's tragic death, for which she blames herself. Through the narrative, readers witness Hazel's journey of self-discovery, friendship, and acceptance, as she navigates through her emotions and learns to open up to love and hope. The writing style is described as emotional, inclusive, and deeply moving, capturing the complexities of grief and the importance of familial and friendship bonds in a sensitive yet impactful manner.

"Ban This Book" by Alan Gratz is a heartwarming story about a fourth-grade girl named Amy Anne who takes a stand against book banning in her school. When her favorite book is removed from the library, Amy Anne and her friends set up an underground library to lend out banned books, sparking a movement for change within their school district. The book beautifully portrays the power of community, the importance of standing up for what you believe in, and the impact of books on people's lives.

Simon Sort of Says by Erin Bow tells the story of a middle schooler named Simon, who is the sole survivor of a school shooting. To escape the memories, Simon and his family move to the National Quiet Zone, a place where technology is restricted. The book blends humor with serious themes of trauma, anxiety, and healing. Bow's writing is both genuine and beautiful, capturing the voice of a 12-year-old accurately and with depth, making the characters relatable and vivid.

Throughout the novel, Simon navigates his new life while grappling with his past. He deals with complex emotions but maintains a sense of humor, which serves as a coping mechanism. Readers can expect moments of laughter alongside the poignant exploration of grief and recovery. Simon’s friendships help him in his journey, and the story is crafted with care, making it a touching yet entertaining read.

Kim Fay's 'Love & Saffron' is an epistolary novel set in the 1960s that follows the unlikely friendship between two women, Joan and Immy, who bond over their shared love of food and cooking. Through heartfelt letters filled with cooking ideas, hopes, dreams, and personal experiences, the two women develop a deep and lasting friendship. The story beautifully captures the essence of female relationships, the joy of sharing recipes and secrets, and the comfort found in a genuine connection.

The book is written in a charming and heartwarming style that showcases the intimacy of old-fashioned letters exchanged between Joan and Immy. The narrative unfolds through the delightful exchanges between the two women, offering a glimpse into their lives, personalities, and the evolving friendship that blossoms over time. Kim Fay's exquisite writing and attention to detail, especially in portraying the 1960s era, create a captivating and engaging read that resonates with themes of friendship, love, and the power of food to connect people.

From the opinions provided, "From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" by E.L. Konigsburg is a classic children's novel about siblings, Claudia and Jamie, who run away from home to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The siblings become fascinated by a mysterious statue at the museum and embark on a mission to uncover its true origins, which leads them to Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, the donor of the statue. The book explores themes of adventure, self-discovery, family relationships, and the importance of secrets, all portrayed through the eyes of the children as they navigate the challenges of living in a museum.

The plot of the book revolves around the children's ingenuity in surviving in the museum, their quest to solve the mystery of the statue, and their encounters with Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. The writing style is described as engaging, with clever dialogue and a mix of mystery and adventure that keeps readers intrigued. The story is set in a realistic fiction world where children take on adult-like challenges, showcasing their resilience, intelligence, and independence as they navigate the museum and unravel the secrets hidden within its walls.

In 'Small Things Like These' by Claire Keegan, set in 1985 in a small Irish town, readers follow the story of Bill Furlong, a coal and timber merchant, as he navigates through a time of economic uncertainty and societal pressures. When Bill uncovers a disturbing secret at a local convent, he is faced with a moral dilemma that challenges his values and sense of justice. Keegan's writing style is described as poignant, evocative, and deeply moving, drawing readers into the emotional journey of Bill Furlong and the complexities of the era.

In "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan, readers follow the adventures of Percy Jackson, a demigod who discovers his true identity as the son of Poseidon. Along with his friends Grover and Annabeth, Percy navigates a world filled with Greek mythology, monsters, and gods. The book combines humor, action, and a coming-of-age journey as Percy embarks on a quest to prevent a war between Zeus and Poseidon, ultimately leading to a heartwarming bond of friendship and self-discovery.

The storyline of "The Lightning Thief" is fast-paced, engaging, and filled with adventure, making it a thrilling read for both children and adults. Riordan's writing style seamlessly weaves Greek myths into a modern setting, introducing readers to a world where gods, monsters, and demigods coexist. Through Percy's dyslexia, ADHD, and heroic journey, the book explores themes of identity, friendship, and the power of teamwork in the face of perilous challenges.