Recommended for anyone who enjoys Wonder by R.J. Palacio, enjoys reading about those who overcome obstacles and persevere through tough times, feels that they are different and have a difficult time fitting in with their peers
Look out, Readers! There's a new hero in town, and her name is Aven. Seriously, I am in love with this character. Aven, who was born without arms, has always attended the same school, so all of her peers know and understand her and the way she gets through her daily life. When her unemployed father takes a job managing an amusement park in Arizona, Aven must attend a new school where she is met with curious stares and some not so accepting peers.
As Aven gets settled into her new surroundings, she befriends Connor who has Tourette's Syndrome and Zion who hides from his peers due to his weight problem. With Aven's optimistic outlook and great sense of humor, these three become a perfect team. Along the way, they uncover a mystery that involves tarantulas, a locked desk, and a turquoise necklace. The unraveling of the mystery touched my heart and made me sob like a baby.
Told with humor, optimism, and empathy, this story is one of those that creates windows for many and mirrors for those who really need to know that they are not alone.
Dusti Bowling--You should be extremely proud of what you have accomplished here! I already have a list of students waiting for me to turn the story over to them. I can't wait to put it into their hands and hearts.
