Christine Van Horn

Book Report

Summary

 

This is an easy and well-written chapter book about the aftermath of Phoebe's brother's sudden death. Told in a series of flashbacks, Mick is actually a big part of the story which lends to its more moving and heartwarming parts. Phoebe's family deals with their grief and loss in healthy and unhealthy ways. For a while, the parents blame Phoebe for Mick's death as she was the one who sent him home on his bike that day. He died because he was not wearing his helmet, but the accident is not described. Ultimately, Phoebe and her family works towards healing with the help of supportive friends, family, spiritual beliefs, and time. Language is mild (f-rt, d-mn). A reference about some kids being planned, and some being surprises will most likely go over a young reader's head. Although written for younger readers, the book is at times wrenching, but absolutely worthwhile for those who are not too sensitive.

 

"I've replayed that scene in my head a hundred times since the day it happened" (Park19).

 

"I prayed to God that it was all a terrible mistake and Mick hadn't been the one riding it" (Park 22).