Author: Monica Roe
Genre: realistic fiction
Similar books: Song for a Whale by Lynne Kelly
Roll With It by Jamie Sumner
Rating:
.JPG)
Summary (provided by publisher): Twelve-year-old Emmie is working to raise money for a tricked-out wheelchair to get serious about WCMX, when a mishap on a poorly designed ramp at school throws her plans into a tailspin. Instead of replacing the ramp, her school provides her with a kind but unwelcome aide—and, seeing a golden media opportunity, launches a public fundraiser for her new wheels. Emmie loves her close-knit rural town, but she can’t shake the feeling that her goals—and her choices—suddenly aren’t hers anymore. With the help of her best friends, Emmie makes a plan to get her dreams off the ground—and show her community what she wants, what she has to give, and how ready she is to do it on her own terms.
My opinion: Sometimes in middle grade books we see a character with a need and the community pulling together to make it a reality. We don't often see the other side of that equation, where a very showy donation is made and no consideration is made for the things that would genuinely improve their life. In this book there is no denying that Emmie will benefit from a better wheelchair. But what will improve her life, and the lives of others like her, more is better accessibility in the school and around town. Through this narrative Roe is encouraging us to fully see people, to truly listen to them and make sure they have what they need. This is seen in the primary plot, of course, but also in Emmie's interactions with her father and her friends. She has to confront her own preconceived notions as well as dealing with other people's perceptions of her. All around a solid read.
Advanced Reader Copy provided by NetGalley
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