I'm giving this book four stars. I can't say it's a story I'm in love with, but I do think my fourth graders will like this book. In the story Anna turns to books instead of "mean girls". The introduction of these stories might encourage reading additional great books!She grows into herself in the book, and learns to appreciate her family. She struggles with fourth grade writing (must be taking STAAR!) and with making friends. There's also some complicated divorce stuff in there, and how to support others in need.Not a grand story, but a good one... And a keeper for my fourth grade bookshelf. Anna is a fourth grade girl having trouble with friendships. Her best friend, Laura, is hanging out more with other girls, Allison and Lucy, and it seems pretty clear that there is no room for a fourth. Although hurt, Anna turns to her books for comfort, and even when Laura starts to try to come back around, Anna finds she'd rather spend time with her books. But Laura really needs a true friend, and Anna needs to learn if she can be that kind of friend.I can see this book being a success with 3rd and 4th grade girls, I just wish that there was more integration of the books into the story. The author shares the books she's reading and what they are about, but I wonder if she could have chosen to intertwine them with the story, and help Anna to learn through the stories.
What do You think about The Year Of The Book (2012)?
Very sweet children's chapter book. I enjoyed all the references to real children's literature.
—lincoln
Good story, great illustrations. Reminiscent of "A Step From Heaven."
—MacandMadison111
This is one of the best books I have ever read.
—rizzlerue
