Slice of Life: Walking Partners #SOL21 #IMWAYR

My exercise options are pretty slim right now. Even though my legs are fine … I can’t risk falling on my arms. I can now walk on my own on a very level, quiet road that is right near my house. Level so I don’t trip, quiet so I don’t have to dodge traffic and risk falling, and near in case I run into any trouble. It’s a habitrail of sorts. I go back and forth again and again. It is monotonous but it is something. I treat myself to audible books when I walk. I only allow myself to listen to them when I walk so I have something to look forward to. These three middle grade novels in verse kept me going in circles far longer than I thought possible.

Lifeboat 12 is historical fiction and gripping. Up until the last page I was on the edge of my so-called seat. I don’t typically read a lot of historical fiction. If you liked Refugee - check this book out.

Starfish is a coming of age story about a girl named Ellie. Ellie struggles with her how those around her make her feel about herself due to her weight. She works throughout the story to find her voice and embrace all that is wonderful about herself.

Forget Me Not is also a coming of age story about a girl named Calliope June. She has Tourette syndrome and is bullied by her peers. Her mother moves them from town to town and makes Callie keep her challenges a secret. Callie then begins to make friends in her new town and decides to be true to herself and share her story.

Interestingly, in each of these texts the mother was a character I struggled with as I read. Even though there was growth in these characters it was difficult to understand their point of view and how they interacted with the main character. Each book had cringe-worthy scenes that I still cannot get out of my mind.

Three great books - audio version good as well. Middle grade readers will connect with each of these texts - add them to your classroom library, bookroom or school library.

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