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Grace’s Write Time follows a seventh-grade girl whose family moves to a new town, uprooting her life and causing her to struggle with making new friends in a new city. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When I was in middle school, our family moved to Chicago. It opened up a whole new world for me. I thought that would be a good starting point to incorporate my family themes of adoption and identity.
Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?
While in our new town, I took horseback riding lessons. It was a totally new experience for me and the start of a more adventurous spirit beginning to grow. That spirit and curiosity is important, especially for middle schoolers who are just beginning to find out about the world.
In Grace’s Write Time, I have included equine therapy as one of the ways in which an adopted child can be supported. Equine therapy is often used as a way to promote mental, physical and emptional well-being and it worked well with the story.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
As an adoptive mom, I began writing children’s books about adoption trauma, grief and loss. All adoption begins with trauma and my mission has always been to promote honest conversations within families. Children in blended families naturally have questions about their story. Where did I come from? Who do I look like? Adoption begins with loving intentions, but parents must be transparent, telling children their adoption stories even before the concept of adoption is understood. With honest conversation, blended families can thrive.
Will this novel be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
Grace’s Write Time is book one in a series with a working title of: The Blended Family Series. My second book is almost completed and incorporates themes on divorce and step children. The age range for the book is the same; eight to twelve. A third book is also in the early planning stages and will involve additional blended family topics and issues.
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A Middle School Chapter Book About Friendship and Belonging
Meet Grace Mackenzie, a smart 7th grader who loves reading and writing but struggles to make friends. When her family moves to a brand new city, Grace finds solace in writing letters and horseback riding lessons with her new friend Andy.
But when Andy confides in her about his adoption and quest to find his birth mother, Grace is drawn into a secret adventure that changes everything.
As they work together to uncover the truth, Grace realizes the power of true friendship, and the importance of connecting. Will Grace finally discover her voice and help Andy solve his family mystery?
Get ready for a heartwarming journey filled with laughter, tears, and the magic of finding friendship and family.
It’s sometimes difficult to find THAT friend: This chapter book is especially suited for middle-grade children ages 8-12 who are navigating school life and seeking acceptance, kindness, and, above all, friendship. Through her letter writing, Grace shows empathy and understanding, while demonstrating resilience in the face of mean girl bullying. Challenges like moving to a new city can test any child’s social skills, but discover how Grace uses these obstacles to give her self-worth a much-needed boost.
Grace’s Write Time
Grace’s Write Time, by Anna Maria DiDio, is a poignant coming-of-age tale centered on Grace, a seventh-grader uprooted from her familiar world. Forced to move to a new place, she is left grappling with loneliness and the struggle to adapt to her new reality. The book delves into the emotional turmoil of change, showcasing Grace’s journey as she navigates a new school, attempts to make friends, and searches for her place in an unfamiliar environment. Amid her struggles, Grace finds comfort in the solace of books and the letters she writes. An unexpected friendship with Andy, a boy quietly coping with his own grief as he searches for his mother, brings a new dimension to her life. Their bond, built on shared vulnerability and mutual support, gradually helps both characters confront their inner turmoil. Together, they explore the meaning of friendship, family, and belonging, discovering that even the smallest connections can bring familiarity and closure.
DiDio masterfully captures the bittersweet emotions of growing up. While the book targets middle-grade readers, its universal themes of change, self-discovery, and connection resonate across all ages. Grace’s emotional journey feels authentic, offering an intimate look at her frustrations, fears, and personal growth. Her love of books and letters becomes a powerful outlet, a thread that ties her to a sense of identity amid the chaos of relocation. Andy’s storyline adds depth and poignancy to the narrative. His quiet grief and longing for connection complement Grace’s struggles, weaving a parallel tale of loss and healing. Although his arc feels slightly less developed compared to Grace’s, it remains a touching addition that enhances the book’s emotional resonance.
One standout element is the inclusion of equine therapy. This unique detail symbolizes Grace’s evolving confidence and emotional resilience. It’s a meaningful addition that highlights her progress, subtly underscoring her transformation from feeling lost to finding her footing. The prose is simple yet evocative, allowing readers to immerse themselves in Grace’s world. Although I feel her internal reflections occasionally slow the pacing, these moments provide valuable insights into her character. The story’s steady unfolding invites readers to empathize with her struggles and celebrate her triumphs. It’s the kind of book that feels personal, drawing readers into its heartfelt and character-driven narrative.
Those of a similar age to Grace will find her story especially meaningful, while older readers may appreciate its nostalgic look at childhood resilience. Grace’s Write Time is a powerful yet understated exploration of growth and belonging. Anna Maria DiDio crafts a tender, relatable story that captures the essence of small troubles and the quiet strength needed to overcome them. It’s an ideal choice for readers who appreciate heartfelt, character-focused tales and a reminder that even in the face of upheaval, connection and personal growth are always within reach.
Pages: 243 | ASIN : B0DJF2NYHL
Pennygirl’s Rescue
Pennygirl’s Rescue, by Judy McGee, is a heartfelt story about Penny, a lovable Lab mix with a heart as big as her floppy ears. The story follows Penny’s journey from a Texas farm, where she shared her days with Grandma Adeline and a menagerie of farm animals, to a bustling dog shelter, and finally, to a forever home in Ontario. Along the way, Penny displays courage, loyalty, and patience, warming the hearts of everyone she meets, from the shelter volunteers to the readers who cheer her on.
McGee’s writing is charming and evocative, full of warmth and gentle humor. The descriptions of Penny’s antics and personality are vivid. McGee captures Penny’s innocence and joy with such clarity that I felt like I was right there in the shelter yard watching her explore. The central theme of rescue and second chances shines brightly. Penny’s unwavering optimism, even in the face of uncertainty, resonates deeply. Her bravery during Grandma Adeline’s fall, rushing to fetch help, showcases a profound message: even the smallest actions can make a big difference.
One standout moment was Penny’s encounter with the bullfrog during her walk with Tammy. It’s a perfect snapshot of Penny’s playful, curious nature, and it brought some lightheartedness to the story. The announcement of Penny’s adoption was another highlight. The excitement in the shelter was palpable, and I genuinely felt happy for Penny, who had patiently waited for her turn. McGee captures these moments with simplicity and sincerity, making them all the more impactful.
Pennygirl’s Rescue is a delightful read for animal lovers, especially those who have a soft spot for rescue stories. The book’s simplicity makes it an excellent choice for children, but the emotional depth will tug at the heartstrings of adult readers too. If you enjoy stories about courage, kindness, and the bond between humans and animals, this book is worth picking up. Just be ready to fall in love with Penny—you’ll be wagging your imaginary tail right along with her.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DN1SBCH1
Curious Chris- Why No Flamingos?
Curious Chris – Why No Flamingos? by Cindy B. Witty, illustrated by Sally Garland, stands out as a particularly charming and insightful children’s book. The story, centered around Chris, a boy with an insatiable curiosity, captures the essence of a child’s imaginative world. Chris’s constant stream of questions, ranging from the mundane to the fantastical, not only entertains but also reflects a deep and relatable aspect of childhood.
The narrative’s strength lies in its portrayal of how Chris’s parents navigate his endless inquiries. They ingeniously propose a pet as a way to channel his curiosity, leading to Chris’s whimsical desire for a flamingo, or “falingmo” in his endearing mispronunciation. This choice is an imaginative yet grounded approach to dealing with a child’s boundless imagination. As the story unfolds, with the realization that a flamingo is an impractical pet, it takes a gentle turn towards dealing with disappointment and finding joy in unexpected outcomes.
The introduction of Angel, the sandy-colored Labrador, marks a significant shift in Chris’s journey. The gradual shift from disappointment to affection is handled with a deft touch, teaching an important lesson about adaptability and openness to new experiences. What truly elevates this book are Sally Garland’s illustrations. They do more than just accompany the text; they breathe life into Chris’s world, making the story more immersive and engaging for young readers. The combination of Witty’s storytelling and Garland’s visuals creates a captivating experience.
Curious Chris – Why No Flamingos? is a rich, multifaceted tale that delves into themes of curiosity, adaptability, and the joys of unexpected companionship. It is an excellent choice for children, offering both entertainment and valuable life lessons in a delightful package.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CFW25HT3
LITERARY TITAN 