Review: The Wrong Way Home

By Kate O’Shaughnessy

New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2024. Fiction. 325 pages.

Fern and her mother live in an isolated community called the Ranch where their community leader, Dr. Ben, tells them to avoid all the things that could ruin their lives and health (cell phones, books that aren’t written by Dr. Ben, sugar, computers, anything from the outside world…) When Fern’s mom sneaks them off the Ranch to go and live in the modern world, Fern's only wish is to go back to the life she has known. As Fern starts to live in a seaside town in California, she begins to realize that maybe the teachings of Dr. Ben aren’t quite true. For example, her science teacher with diabetes would die if he didn’t have medicine. Also, Fern starts to make friends who get her interested in books, the environment, and learning about whales and things. Fern then has to navigate all the mixed-up feelings that come with each new discovery, fighting against the sense of home and acceptance that she felt at the Ranch.

This is a good book that deals with seeing the signs of cult-like behaviors and who to trust and what is good vs. evil. Fern is a remarkable kid who has a lot to learn and discover about herself, her mom, and the world. Kids who want to think and who are interested in trying to understand why other kids might have different beliefs, opinions, or who just might need some extra love and support will enjoy reading Fern’s story.

Comments

Review: Umami

Umami By Jacob Grant New York: Viking, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC, 2024. Picture Book. Umami is a little penguin who is sick of eating the same thing everyday, cold fish --ugh! She becomes determined to find new foods and flavors, so Umami begins a journey across the sea in search of something different to eat. She reaches a place with a plethora of delicious options, and tries bitter, sweet, sour, and foods with umami (just like her name!) among others. Umami decides to bring all these delicious new flavors back for the other penguins to try in a feast. But, will the other penguins enjoy this new experience? Filled with charm and humor, Umami is a diverse romp through a universal experience --am I willing to try something new? What will it be like? The idea of trying new foods and flavors make it especially relatable, and the appealing illustrations will have many readers ready to hop out on a culinary adventure. A humorous and sweet ending, caps off this delig...

Review: Faker

Faker By Gordon Korman New York: Scholastic Press, 2024. Fiction. 214 pages. 12-year-old Trey is used to starting over at a new school -- he has the routine perfectly memorized: make new friends, introduce his dad to the wealthy parents of his new friends, and "Houdini" themselves out of there before they get caught running their latest scam. Trey's dad is a master con artist, and Trey has just been promoted to full-partner. Their new scheme for the next big score brings them to the affluent suburb of Boxelder, TN where Trey's dad has cooked up a fake electric car company for investors to buy into. The only problem is that Trey is starting to grow tired of moving around and never putting down roots, especially after forming a fast friendship with Logan and developing a crush on Kaylee, a socially conscious girl in his class. As Trey longs for a normal life, is there any way he can convince his dad to get out of the family business? Gordon Korman is a perennial favorit...

Five Faves: Picture Books with Festive Treats

In my family, December marks the beginning of the holiday season, where we get to spend time together and do all of our favorite traditions. And, of course, eat lots of yummy food. I love that holidays look different for different families, but so many families have special foods they eat during the holidays. These are some of my favorite picture books about families making (and eating!) special holiday treats. These books might even give you new ideas of festive treats to try! The Last Tamale Written by Mendiola Orlando Illustrated by Teresa Martinez New York: Harper, 2024. Picture Book. Once a year, Luis' whole family gets together for their annual tamalada -- a party where they make tamales using a super-secret recipe. It's all love, family, and tradition until there is only one tamale left. Who will get it? It's an all-out family battle to decide who gets the last tamale. Colorful and humorous, this story is perfect for the holidays or whenever your family likes to enjo...

Provo Library Children's Book Blog

Search This Blog