Middle Grade Mini-Reviews

Reynard’s Dream by Geoffrey Simpson

The Three Hares #2

I read the first book in this series, Bloodline, last year and quite enjoyed it. So when the author asked me to read and review the second book I was happy to do so.

The story starts up about a year after the events of the first book. The evil organization, the Red Fox, has been lying low, but is now rearing its ugly head again with a plan to totally change society. Ethan and his friends Jacob and Liz are up to the challenge though and continue to thwart his plans as best they can. The story is well paced this time, with lots of adventure and some pretty tight spots that the kids manage to get themselves out of. There is another treasure hunt, for a real treasure this time. The kids continue to grow in their leadership roles and in their strategic thinking. They have new allies too, but unfortunately loose one of my favorites. A really nice follow up to the first book. I am looking forward to the next book and hopefully the defeat of the Red Fox.

I Can Make This Promise by Christine Day

There are many things to like about this book, a great protagonist, caring parents, friendship woes and it is an own voices for the local Native American tribes in Washington. But it is a debut, and unfortunately has a few issues. The writing is a bit clunky at times and the plot could have been a bit better. I think if the big reveal as to why Edie’s mom had been adopted was earlier in the book, that would have given more time for Edie to learn about her culture. Instead the book is mostly about her friendship with Amelia falling apart and her yearning to know why her parents are keeping this big secret from her. That said, I would still recommend this book to my students. It is a heartwarming story and Edie is a girl that kids will be able to relate too. Plus any book set in Seattle is always fun to read.

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