Book review - Skies Like These

Title: Skies Like These
Author: Tess Hilmo
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Similar books: The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall
                     Three Bird Summer by Sara St. Antoine
Rating:

A pleasing read with a lovely setting

Summary: Jade's not happy to be spending her summer in Wyoming with her Aunt Elise, a quirky character who's cooking experiments tend to end in disaster. Then she meets Roy Parker, a local boy obsessed with Butch Cassidy. Roy's dad had to close his hardware store and Roy is determined to reopen it, no matter what it takes. He takes his inspiration from his hero, Butch. And he wants Jade to be his Sundance Kid.
My opinion: There is so much to love about this book. The characters, even the dogs, are distinct and quirky. Even Roy's nemesis has a little bit of depth. The plot, while somewhat simple, does have a few twists. The real strength to this book, though, is the setting. Hilmo describes all of the setting with real depth and beauty, a love of nature which is pervasive. I particularly loved the stargazing scenes. This is a great book for middle grade readers who are starting to look at the world a little more closely.
More Information: Skies Like These releases July 15th.
Advanced Reader Copy provided by NetGalley.