Buckle Up, written and illustrated by Lawrence Lindell. Random House Graphic. Penguin Random House. 2024. $18.99 ages 9 and up

 

"I'm not mad. I was just waiting to 
see what you would say. 

You're not mad? 

No, I'm not. 
I'm disappointed. 

Disappointed! That's worse than if 
he were mad!"

So many changes in Lonnie's life; it's not easy. He likes living with his mom and his sister, but he misses his dad. His fervent wish is for his dad to come back home. His parents' divorce is embarrassing to Lonnie. Dealing with family issues like divorce make him feel different. Some of his friends tease him about the fact that his parents no longer come to school together to pick him up or drop him off.  He asks both to meet him a block away. That way no one takes notice. 

Time spent with his dad happens after school, when his father picks him up to drive him home. It isn't easy for Lonnie to talk about his feelings with either parent. Both ask what is bothering him; and each says they want to help. It isn't until he gets in trouble at school for bullying that he finally explains how much he wants things to go back to the way they were. 

It takes many car trips with his father to begin to talk about things that are important to him. Together, they find that they have interests in common, and their relationship improves. Knowing that he can talk about his thoughts and feelings paves a new path for Lonnie and a happier life. 

This graphic novel is designed to show the emotions felt by the whole family, often using wordless panels to move the story toward an acceptable and satisfying conclusion. The author blends text and artwork to create a story that middle graders will find appealing. 

Tadpoles, written and illustrated by Matt James, Neal Porter Books, Holiday House, Penguin Random House. 2023. $24.99 ages 6 and up

"When it rains, most creatures 
will head for cover. 

But frogs like the rain. 
It makes them sing. 
When of lot of frogs sing together, 
it is called a chorus." 

Writing about the hard changes that happen in a person's life is no easy task; Matt James takes it on with passion and aplomb in his new book about divorce and family dynamics. It is also concerned with habitat, seasons, and the life cycle of frogs. It is wonderful look at the changing relationships felt by the boy who narrates the story in a strong, clear voice. 

He immediately lets readers know that he is a listener and a thinker. After being met by his father at school in the rain, the two head over to the field across the street. He shares observations about his surroundings, and the things he likes to do. 

The two spend time there, checking out what people have left behind and visiting the old silo that still stands. He mentions that he used it to voice his worries when his dad first moved out, shouting all the swear words he knew ... afraid that his father wouldn't love him anymore. Dad quickly assuaged that fear. Now, they spend time together enjoying nature and learning. 

The changes are many. Mixed media artwork is filled with dark clouds, rain, and movement on every page. They effectively match the mood of the story as it moves forward, until the sky turns blue again. The two say their goodbyes; the boy arrives home where Mom is waiting with a warm hug.  

Short notes are added concerning a frog's life cycle, ephemeral ponds, along with a note from the author describing childhood memories and the need to protect natural habitats. A list for further reading can be found there, too. 

Like Cats and Dogs, written by Melanle Perreault and illustrated by Marion Arbona. Translated by Chantal Bilodeau. Second Story Press, 2022. $19.95 ages 6 and up

 

"Yes, it's true, Mom and Dad are not in love anymore. 
But I'm sure it could be better than this. 
How can they fight so badly
when I love them both so much? 
All I wish is that they could watch me play hockey 
without snarling at each other the whole time."

Life for Rosalie, a child of divorce, can be very trying. The problem, beyond moving back and forth from one parent to the other, is exacerbated by the way the parents continue to argue every time they see each other.

Rosalie's first-person voice is pragmatic and often humorous, as she describes her parents and their treatment of each other. She knows they love her, and she certainly loves them. Still, she has great difficulty understanding their inability to get along at all. As Rosalie speaks directly to readers, she explains what she needs from them. 

"I don’t care who is right and who is wrong.
I just want to be free to love them both, and to
love them loudly, all the time."

Each has their own strengths. They just cannot get along together. She knows - and they do not - that each loves the same song. It is special to Rosalie because it reminds her of them, and always will. When Rosalie hums the song while with them, both parents are more than pleased. 

"I have two houses, but only one heart. 
My parents live in it together."

Perhaps one day, the two will celebrate their daughter together. It's a wait-and-see situation. There will be children who see themselves in Rosalie, as sad as that may be. 

The List of Things That Will Not Change, written by Rebecca Stead. Wendy Lamb Books. Penguin Random House. 2020. $22.99 ages 8 and up

 

"I had forgotten to do my worrying before dinner,

which is probably why things kept popping up in 

my brain: Angelica. Sonia. Mission. I kept telling 

them, "I'll see you later," the way Miriam taught 

me, but worries don't always listen. I took a 

little RSVP envelope and rubbed one sharp 

corner on all the itchy places between my fingers."

Bea is thinking about what life is like since her parents' divorce four years ago, when she was 8. At 12, she talks about the way her family now works. Her first-person voice makes for a directness that is appealing, and reflects on her age and response to all that is happening. She talks about how the two parts of her one family are coping with the changes marked by separation. We learn about her mother, her father and his new partner, their extended family, and the new 'sister' who will be hers when their dads finally get married. 

As she shares moments from her life at school, readers recognize the frustration she is feeling, and the angry outbursts and aggressions toward others. Many concerning issues are part of Bea's life now; things like divorce, gay parents, anger, needing and getting help for her personal struggles, family upsets, and her battle with severe eczema.  

Bea's voice is always real and open; her responses are moving and authentic, if not always carefully considered. She has a great family, good friends, and a belief that 'the list of things that will not change' is viable and true. Not every problem can be solved, but there is always hope that, with help, it can be improved. 

Empathetic, messy, wonderful and full of love, you need to read this book! 

Stepping Stones, written and illustrated by Lucy Knisley. Random House Graphic, Penguin Random House. 2020. $27.99 ages 9 and up

 

"I thought we talked about this. 

Your dad said he's been doing your 

flash cards with you. 

I know - I know my sixes pretty well, but ... 

You've got to be able to make change

if you're going to work at the market."

I have read other graphic novels by Lucy Knisley; this is her first for young readers. What an excellent way to share, in often funny and very poignant text, some aspects of her own life story. 

Following her parents' divorce, Jen and her mother move to a rural setting. Jen is not thrilled; she misses the many amenities of her city life. She loves comic books and Chinese food. They are not to be found anywhere close to where they live in the country. Now, her days include caring for their chickens by keeping them fed and their henhouse clean, hauling water, milking cows, laying down wood chips to create dry pathways around the farm. She must also contend with the grumpiness of her mother's boyfriend, Walter and his daughters who visit on weekends. 

Jen helps at the farmers' market. Her math skills are lacking and causing some issues. When Walter's girls start making their weekend visits, Jen has more to make her angry. Andy is a know-it -all - capable and bright, and always wanting things to be done her way. She is also good at math. The three must share Jen's room; it is an uncomfortable time of adjustment for everyone. Jen relies on her art and writing to give her outlet for her conflicted feelings. 

Humorous and emotional, this book will resonate with middle graders who feel burdened by their own inablitity to make decisions for themselves, while under parental control. It is heartening to see that Jen grows and thrives as she learns new skills, focuses on her artistic ingenuity, and becomes friends with her new 'sisters'. 

A realistic story that allows readers to relate to well-developed characters, accompanied by expertly crafted visual storytelling. Love the farm scenes, and the rural setting. Back matter is much appreciated.                                                                    

The Year We Fell From Space, by Amy Sarig King. Arthur A. Levine Books, Scholastic. 2019. $22.99 ages 10 and up

"I’m Liberty Johansen and I’m going to change the way people look at the night sky. I’m going to free them of old-constellation rules and teach them how to draw their own maps because the sky is trying to tell them something ... only they don’t know it yet because I’m a sixth grader and nobody ever listens to sixth graders who say they’re going to do big things. But I’m an exception. We’re a family of exceptions.”

I have read a number of excellent middle years novels lately, and am going to start this week with another remarkable work by Amy Sarig King. To say she writes memorable stories is a massive understatement.

Liberty loves looking at the stars, and does so often. She creates star maps for what she sees in the night sky, and names her own constellations. She uses her father's love of many of the same things are her guiding light. Her parents' separation and decision to divorce wreak havoc in her life. As the number of days of not seeing her father grow, her anger does, too.  In the midst of all that is happening, she watches a meteor fall to earth nearby, and brings it home.

Her anger is aimed in different directions, but mostly inwardly. Throwing a toaster through the kitchen window, hiding a diamond ring where it will never be found by a school nemesis, and eventually telling her father just exactly how she feels about the family separation, cause her the added worry that she might also be suffering from the same depression her father is. She uses the meteor as a sounding board for all that she is experiencing. This allows her to piece together the struggles and fears she is facing at home and at school.  Liberty is spirited, while also willing to seek counselling to help her navigate her new, unwanted reality.

 “I don’t know what aliens would think about humans if they came here. Humans are weird. We have some problems, I guess. I care more about stars than I care about humans anyway. Humans have been nothing but a pain in my butt so far. Which makes me more like Dad. And I’d be lying if I said that didn’t worry me.”

In this emotional and realistic look at the effects of divorce on a family, Ms. King navigates the pain and grief felt through Liberty's eyes. Poignant and heartbreaking, it shows Liberty, in the midst of her rage and uncertainty, to be a sympathetic and understanding friend to others. Though she is not perfect, she does her best to grow from her experiences and to find the help that she and her family need at a very critical time.

Weekend Dad, written by Naseem Hrab and illustrated by Frank Viva. Groudwood Books, 2020. $18.95 ages 4 and up

"And I tell my dad all about
my week. I tell him about the
dragon catcher I invented. I
tell him about the boy in grade
six who tripped me at recess.
And I tell him about the sour
candy that Marlo dared me to
try. (It wasn't that sour.)

The bus ride feels like three
seconds, but according to
Wendell it lasts forty-eight ... "

When parents separate, the way of life their children have known is dramatically altered. In this very meaningful picture book, the child narrator allows readers a glimpse into the life he now leads. His narration is poignant and honest. His opening line is frank.

"On Monday morning, my
dad moved out of our house
and into an apartment."

Dad assures he won't be far away. The boy is bombarded with feelings and memories throughout the week. These small personal moments are testament to their life together prior to his father's leaving. Soon, it's Friday and Dad is on the doorstep. Mom provides everything needed for the visit, and a gentle kiss and hug goodbye. Wendell, his favorite stuffie, goes too.

The bus ride to his father's apartment is filled with amiable chatter. Arrival at his second home is fine because Dad is there; it bears no resemblance to his other home because Mom is not. This first weekend is strange. Fear, apprehension, and being in a brand-new place is disconcerting. On Saturday morning, the two begin making their own new personal memories. They do the same on Sunday because that's what they always do! These small moments are touching, and very effective.

There are no dramatic emotional displays. Frank Viva's hand inked and digitally colored images provide exactly the right touch for this quiet, hopeful story. In his deft hands, readers are able to fully understand what his happening as the young child navigates a new reality. While being with his dad, he wonders about his mom. He decides to leave Wendell to keep Dad company. Dad sends him home with a letter filled with love and hope. 

 ...you will hear your dad's heart beat, and with each beat, you will hear the words: "You are loved."

Dear Sweet Pea. bu Julie Murphy. Harper, 2019. $21.99 ages 10 and up

"Mom says it's none of our business
and that it shouldn't change anything.
Especially if your mom is okay with
it."  "I wouldn't say she's okay with it, but she's not mad at him." I pull my knees up to my chest and hold them there while I think of the right way to explain. "She knows he doesn't mean to hurt us, but it's kind of hard, because I think it might be easier if they didn't like each other so much and just got divorced for the usual reasons."

Happy publication day to Dear Sweet Pea! It's time to celebrate.

This new middle years novel from Julie Murphy continues her run at capturing worthy and memorable characters in stories that speak honestly to the emotional bumps of adolescence, family, friendship, and diversity.

Sweet Pea DiMarco has a lot on her plate. Her parents are divorced. Her mother's solution to their living conditions is for her father to rent a look-a-like house two doors down from their family home. That way Sweet Pea can move seamlessly back and forth, from one house to the other depending on whose night it is. The divorce happened when her father announced he was gay. Her parents continue to love each other, and only want what is best for their daughter.

Then, there's school and friendships; Sweet Pea's former best friend has decided she likes the popular girls more than she is loyal to Sweet Pea. They are in the same seventh grade class, and Kiera is  mean enough not to ask Sweet Pea to her birthday party (even though every other kid in class is invited). Her new best friend, Oscar, wants to attend because it's being held at the brand new Trampoline Zone.

Into the mix the author adds Miss Flora Mae, an older woman who lives between Sweet Pea's two houses and writes an advice column for the local newspaper. When Miss Flora Mae must leave town to help her sister, she leaves Sweet Pea with the job of taking care of the paperwork while she is away. Oh, and her plants and the music they love to hear. While helping out Sweet Pea gets herself in a bit of a fix. How she works through the consequences of that makes for a compelling story, filled with familiar situations that readers have likely experienced ... friendship issues, family difficulties, guilt.

Through it all, Sweet Pea becomes stronger and more confident. As with Ms. Murphy's characters in previous books, Sweet Pea is overweight. It matters more to others than it does to Oscar, her parents, or herself. She has a strong sense of self and shows it through a first person narrative that is funny, and full of charm.

On the Other Side of the Garden, written by Jairo Buitrago and illustrated by Rafael Yockteng. Translated by Elisa Amado. Groundwood. 2018. $19.95 ages 6 and up

"Then we sat on the edge of the creek and put our feet in the water. "I've known your grandmother for many years," said the owl. "No one ever comes to visit her. You are the first, I think," said the frog. "She's kind. Sometimes she leaves out crumbs and rice ... "

Isabel and her father say little as they travel to her grandmother's house in the country. When he drops there with a duffel bag, and a promise to return for her someday, she feels the complete isolation that surrounds her. She knows little about her grandmother, and has never lived outside the city.

Shown to her room, she feels no connection. As she lies in bed thinking about her father and her home in the city, she notices an owl, a frog and a mouse looking at her through the window panes. What's a girl to do? She opens the window and shares conversation with them. She likes them immediately and is soon accompanying them on a walk to the 'other side of the garden'. 

She likes the feeling of the cool grass beneath her feet, something she has not experienced in the city. The three creatures offer information about the country, their love for the beauty found there, and observations about her grandmother, a woman they admire. She tells them about her family: her parents' divorce, her mother's life elsewhere, her father's need to find work. 

They reassure Isabel that things will work out, that her grandmother is a good person, and they listen to her worries and concerns. As dawn breaks, the three find shelter and send her on her way back to her grandmother's house. Grandmother is waiting with a warm hug, and a good dose of reassurance.

"You know you are going to be here for quite a
while?" she asked.
"Yes, Grandmother," I said. I felt like crying.
"Can I walk in your garden at night?"
"At night and in the day. This is your house, too."

Textured digital images are dark and moody as Isabel is dropped off by her father. The moon guides with golden light during her walk and talk with her three new friends, and morning sunlight brings renewed warmth as the story comes to its satisfying conclusion. 

Lovely, simply lovely!