Description
A heartwarming middle grade novel about figuring out who you are when it seems like everyone else has already decided for you, for fans of Erin Entrada Kelly and Gary D. Schmidt.
Nigel Binty has spent sixth grade trying to stick to a plan. His problem is the plan keeps changing in unexpected ways. His only friend has dropped him. His dad moved out two months ago. His anxiety isn’t getting any better. None of that is part of the plan.
When Glory Bea Medford (yes, that’s her real name) turns up at school in March, she plans to keep the reason for her mid-year transfer a secret. Glory Bea prizes being truthful but having everyone find out her father embezzled money from his church was bad enough the first time around. She doesn’t plan to go through that again.
Told in two perspectives, with Glory Bea’s chapters presented as unmailed letters to her incarcerated father, Shawn K. Stout uses warmth and humor to explore what happens when two sixth graders overwhelmed by major life changes cross paths.
Reviews
“Beautifully wrought; convincing, affirming, and entertaining.”
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Upper-elementary and early–middle school readers who enjoy inspiring stories like Jacqueline Woodson’s Harbor Me (2018) and Chris Baron’s The Magical Imperfect (2021) should make plans to meet Nigel Binty and Glory Bea.”
—Booklist (starred review)
“A charming coming-of-age story featuring realistically portrayed children who are facing life’s challenges.”
—School Library Journal
“Nigel’s anxiety and Glory Bea’s turbulent past are empathetically portrayed in this warm reflection on the power—and responsibility—of having and being a good friend.”
—Publishers Weekly
“Sprinkled with funny moments as well as homages to books, authors, and the power of writing, this sincere book concludes with hope.”
—The Horn Book (review not final)
More Details
Juvenile Fiction – Social Themes – Adolescence & Coming Of Age
Juvenile Fiction – Social Themes – Friendship
Juvenile Fiction – Health & Daily Living – Mental Health
