Wonder

I just finished this book seconds ago and I'm bursting with emotions! I feel warm. I feel like I just read a life changing story. I'm excited to share this book with EVERYONE!

This is a tale of a young boy who is starting the 5th grade. Up until this point of his life he has been homeschooled so he is beyond nervous! On top of that he was born with severe facial deformities. Middle school is difficult for all kids but to see it through August's eyes is just so eye-opening. He is the most endearing, honest, and heart warming character I've ever encountered in a piece of literature. He is written in such a realistic way.

There are several chapters in the book that are from the points of view of other characters, August's sister, his friends, and other people he encounters. They are so relatable and HUMAN! They are imperfect but they all have one thing in common: they love August! And I do too!

I think that everyone from the third grade and up will love him as well!

One for the Murphys

It's been awhile since my last blog! With school beginning it's been a hectic time and I haven't had as much time to read. However, I am so glad that I made the time to read One for the Murphys. This a story about a little girl about 13 years old named Carly who is taken away from her parents after she has been beaten by her stepdad. She goes into foster care while her mother recovers in the hospital. The things that Carly goes through are so real and authentic. Having never been in foster care I do not know how it feels, but through reading this book I feel like I got a little glimpse into what it might be like. There are times where Carly is sad, happy, angry, and confused. She is constantly pulling herself in opposite directions. One moment she loves the Murphy family and the next moment she feels like she is betraying her mother by having these feelings. It is a raw look at what many children go through every single day.

I would recommend this book to 5th grade and up, especially to those who are in the foster care system, have been in the system, or know someone who is.This book is inspirational and unconventional. One for the Murphys is a good read!