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2024 Build Your Library Reading Challenge
Monday, September 14, 2020
Middle Grade Debut Heartfelt and Hopeful
8:50 AM
(Image from Barnes & Noble)
Where the Watermelons Grow, Cindy Baldwin's debut, is an atmospheric, heartfelt novel about family, mental illness, and the pain and confusion that often goes along with growing up. Della is a sympathetic, authentic heroine—it's easy to root for her success. My favorite aspect of the novel was the idea of the magic honey. While I understand that Della had to learn a lesson about tackling tough problems with real solutions, I still wanted more of the magical element. Overall, though, I enjoyed this poignant, hopeful story.
(Readalikes: Reminds me a little of Rules by Cynthia Lord)
Grade:
If this were a movie, it would be rated:
for subject matter (erratic/dangerous behavior of a parent due to mental illness) that might be disturbing for readers under 12
To the FTC, with love: Another library fine find
4 comments:
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This sounds very touching, and I like the idea of the magic solution too.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad this was well done as I can imagine so many kids could identify with this in some way or another. It is too bad that it doesn't have more of a magical element though.
ReplyDeleteI love how the author seems to balance the starkness of the family troubles with a bit of whimsy!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like it has a sweet premise, but I'd have trouble with the magic honey. :-)
ReplyDelete