When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
By sixth grade, Miranda and her best friend, Sal, know how to navigate their New York City neighborhood. They know where it's safe to go, and they know who to avoid. Like the crazy guy on the corner.
But things start to unravel. Sal gets punched by a kid on the street for what seems like no reason, and he shuts Miranda out of his life. The apartment key that Miranda's mom keeps hidden for emergencies is stolen. And then a mysterious note arrives, scrawled on a tiny slip of paper. The notes keep coming, and Miranda slowly realizes that whoever is leaving them knows things n
But things start to unravel. Sal gets punched by a kid on the street for what seems like no reason, and he shuts Miranda out of his life. The apartment key that Miranda's mom keeps hidden for emergencies is stolen. And then a mysterious note arrives, scrawled on a tiny slip of paper. The notes keep coming, and Miranda slowly realizes that whoever is leaving them knows things n
o one should know. Each message brings her closer to believing that only she can prevent a tragic death. Until the final note makes her think she's too late. (www.amazon.com)
This was quite the shocker when it comes to books. My younger sister was recommended to read this and so, being the book lover that I am, I naturally picked it up to read a few pages and get the feel of the story. Despite the language being written for younger audiences, I was immediately intrigued. The plot is complicated and much more complex than I would expect a sixth or seventh grader to grasp. I finished it within a day and was extremely pleased with the finale. If you are in need of an excellent quick read, find the nearest copy of When You Reach Me.
There may be a few uses of "oh my god" or the like. I don't remember every use of the phrase and so I will throw out a general warning but don't promise there are uses.
There is reference to murder and accidents such as car accidents. One character is killed when a truck hits him although there is no graphic gore. Another character is punched in the stomach and repeatedly kicked while lying on the ground.
A woman is left by her husband and has a boyfriend. There is no sensuality and everything is handled nicely.
Again, I was rather surprised to find such a complex and compelling story within a children's book. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope you do too!!!
This was quite the shocker when it comes to books. My younger sister was recommended to read this and so, being the book lover that I am, I naturally picked it up to read a few pages and get the feel of the story. Despite the language being written for younger audiences, I was immediately intrigued. The plot is complicated and much more complex than I would expect a sixth or seventh grader to grasp. I finished it within a day and was extremely pleased with the finale. If you are in need of an excellent quick read, find the nearest copy of When You Reach Me.
There may be a few uses of "oh my god" or the like. I don't remember every use of the phrase and so I will throw out a general warning but don't promise there are uses.
There is reference to murder and accidents such as car accidents. One character is killed when a truck hits him although there is no graphic gore. Another character is punched in the stomach and repeatedly kicked while lying on the ground.
A woman is left by her husband and has a boyfriend. There is no sensuality and everything is handled nicely.
Again, I was rather surprised to find such a complex and compelling story within a children's book. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope you do too!!!
Happy reading!
Hannah
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