Just as I suspected, Sunny's
allergic to mold. It can kick
in this time of year. Everything's
damp and wet. Some people are
really susceptible to it. Is there
medicine? We can give allergy
shots once a week. ONCE A
WEEK?!?!?!?"
In this sequel to Sunny Side Up (2015), we are back in the 1976-77 year at middle school with Sunny and her friends. References to television shows of my era, The Brady Bunch, Gilligan's Island and The Six Million Dollar Man, definitely had me waxing nostalgic over times past. The Sunny Show is the platform she uses to share her stories of family, friendship, and friction.
Chapter One, Episode 200 starts us off with Sunny's mother asking her to change her brother's dirty diaper while she gets on with making supper. And, we are off. Her story is revealed in episodes based on family life, its challenges and triumphs; friendship; school life; and a holiday visit from her brother Dale, who returns from his military boarding school for a visit. It is troubling for Sunny, as Dale is decidedly different from the boy who left home after getting in trouble with drugs. It is a low point and handled with empathy and honesty.
The rest of her story is often optimistic and positive. Television binging with her best friend, listening to popular music, Halloween hijinks, babysitting, allergies, Gramps' visit, pet rocks, and new neighbors all add punch and hilarity, as well as emotional impact. Constantly concerned about her older brother, his anger and his return to a school he hates, she seeks advice from Gramps. He speaks from his heart in trying to help his beloved granddaughter.
"Kind of what you're going through with Dale.
I know it's hard to watch somebody you love
struggle. All you want to do is make it better.
But you can't always fix things.
So what can I do?
What we did. Just keep loving him and
hope for the best."
As a reader I very much enjoyed the many references to 1970s culture. Fans of Sunny Side Up will be delighted to spend more time with Sunny. Her story is filled with emotion, and realistic family life that is often messy. Its message is ultimately cheerful and uplifting.
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