What would it be like to have a half-sibling who you feel close to but who lives far away? Author and poet Ona Gritz introduces us to this unique experience in her middle grade chapter book August or Forever. Learn more about this new release and enter to win a signed copy, along with a pretty glass heart necklace - just like the one that figures prominently in the story!
My Review
August or Forever is a touching, comforting and poetically written novel about sisterhood, family, friendship, loss and grief. This August is one to remember because Molly finally gets to live together with her 20-year-old half-sister Alison, who is visiting from London. Besides having the same dad, they share so much in common, their eyes, their smiles, their talent for art, and now, the same bedroom! Excited as well as nervous, Molly is determined to turn Alison's month-long stay into a long-term one. But her seemingly flawless plan falls apart in unexpected directions. Will Alison forgive her accidental but heart-breaking mistake? Can August like this last forever after all?
With Molly as the first-person narrator, the story leads the readers inside the protagonist's heart and mind to feel the ups and downs of her emotion, to listen to her self-talk, and to witness her growth. A great many vivid descriptions and beautiful metaphors are employed to bring to life realistic characters that middle grade readers can easily relate to and empathize with. While exploring the complexity of sibling relationships, the book also discusses the diverse forms families may take, ways to cope with loss and grief, and the similarity between friendship and sisterhood.
Molly's experience implies some important lessons about keeping a healthy relationship with a family member, a friend, or loved ones in general. Be careful not to confuse what you think is good for someone with what she or he really wants. Remember to respect someone's personal space no matter how close you two are. Effective communication is the key to clearing up misunderstandings caused by speculation.
With a sibling or not, anyone who understands Molly's longing for sisterly love and companionship will find this book an engaging and thought-provoking read to savor and treasure.
About the Book:
Ages 9 + | 108 Pages
Publisher: Fitzroy Books | ISBN-13: 9781646033072
Ten-year-old Molly has always loved having a sister, but sisters are supposed to live together, right? Molly certainly thinks so. Unfortunately, her older half-sister Alison lives on a whole other continent. Their video chats are great, and Molly is thrilled when Alison’s hand-written letters arrive in the mail like surprise gifts.
Still, it’s not enough, not compared to what other siblings have. That’s why when Molly finds out that Alison is finally coming to visit over the summer, she devises a plan to get her sister to stay. But then Alison arrives with plans of her own, a fragile heart gets broken, and Molly stumbles upon a painful piece of her sister’s past. Molly has always loved having a sister, but this is the August when she’ll learn what it really means to be one.
Purchase Links: Amazon | Bookshop | Barnes and Noble
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