I read this book in two days. I made everybody go to Seven Peaks and ride the slides so I could read and read and read by the wave pool. (Reading by the pool is my favorite summer activity. Every now and then I get hot enough to dip in the pool for a bit, then I head back to my reading.)
Sweet story of true friendship, regardless of color, and what makes a true friend. Also a really good look at an imperfect mother/daughter relationship, but both are trying to make it better. Loved it. Highly recommended. (I think it is considered a YA novel, but it would be appropriate for a thoughtful nine year old . . .I'm recommending it to Coconut who is nearly ten years old.)
I did learn some new things, but mostly she just reinforced my passion for reading. My children love to read, but we get busy, so this summer we have been setting the timer for 30 minutes every day, to make sure that minimum is met. Plus, even if we are getting to bed late (which happens 85 percent of the time, okay 90 percent!) I've decided to let them have at least 15 minutes of reading time in bed.
I was lucky to have this count toward two different book clubs in a one month period. I liked this book. The struggle with the consequences of dishonesty is real and heart wrenching. The ending is shows justice and mercy . . . thought provoking summer reading!
I had an old friend pass away unexpectedly due to complications from childbirth at the beginning of the summer. I checked out her goodreads page and read the most recent book that she had discussed in some way to remember her and honor her. It was a compelling book. I kept talking about it with Mr. BookDiva. I tad on the depressing side (life was just hard for everyone in the Old South . . .), but a worthwhile novel.
Cupcake typically likes me to read an entire book with her. Even if she is loving it, she prefers that we finish it together. (Contrast that with Dancegirl, who only likes some of the things I start reading to her, then eagerly grabs them away at page 50 or so to read on her own, leaving me to winnow out another book that will entice her to listen for an entire 50 pages.) But this book was different and Cupcake wanted to finish on her own. She came up to my room bawling (This is the girl who prides herself on NOT crying at books.) "This book is really good. I mean REALLY good. Hurry and read it so we can talk about it." I did. Excellent book, great story, quality writing, happy, family friendly, feel good story. 
This is a non-fiction book that reads like an adventure novel. I feel like I'm learning so much. We are really enjoying it. 
Both books are such sweet stories of hard-working, good, loving families working hard and living their lives, making decisions, and helping others. Love them! 
