While this was a good effort by the author, there were many places where the timeline jumps forward without any real indication. You can go from a person’s room to a conversation with a friend in school without warning. As the mother of a teenaged Autistic person, though more high functioning than Carson, I found Carson to be relatable as well as someone I felt a need to protect as much as Rourke did. Rourke embodied many of the same worries and concerns I have found myself worrying over with my other children, one of whom is also Autistic and somewhere between my oldest and Carson. I always worry about their ability to make friends in social situations, rather or not they are being judged by those around them, and their ability to stay safe and to live on their own in the future. I feel that this author has a good amount of insight into the minds of teens and the family members that they may feel the need to worry over. I truly believe that with more experience and time, this author will come into her own and be amazing.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Candice Esteshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCandice Estes2022-02-18 09:00:062022-03-02 15:12:35The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Candice Estes
Sweet Rourke is a 7th grade boy with mysterious neighbors, a crush, younger twin sisters, an autistic older brother, and severe anxiety. I’ve been saying for years that adults forget how stressful it is being a kid, and this book gives a perfect example of how accurate that is. This YA story speaks so wonderfully to young people, but offers a wonderful point of view to adults reading it, as well.
You never know what someone is going through, their thoughts, struggles, home life, mental health…you truly never know. This book was a wonderful read and checked all the boxes. I was brought to tears a few times, laughed and related to the awkwardness many more – and was very satisfied with the ending. I’m glad I took a chance on this book and really feel like I am taking something away from it. A delight.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shea Gilkersonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShea Gilkerson2022-02-17 17:27:502022-02-17 18:29:04The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Shea Gilkerson
Finding new authors is one of my favorite past times. This was the first book I have read by this author and I have to say that I was not let down. I found that the author had a very good way of handling the subject matter she was using reference to in her story. I found that this topic was something I feel would benefit the age group that this book is aimed at. Even though I am older I could relate to the feelings and emotions that the lead character went through. I found this book to be very emotion stirring. I will definitely read more from this author. I really also recommend this for younge readers I am quite sure that they will relate to the main character and it may also help them to be able to talk about their problems.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Caralee Loonathttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCaralee Loonat2022-02-16 13:52:382022-02-16 15:03:49The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Caralee Loonat
The Worry Knot is a Young Adult/Pre-teen story that will take you back to seventh grade and all the awkwardness. I absolutely loved this book and the trip down memory lane,not all of being a Pre-teen was bad. This book is well written and the characters are relatable very well developed and very realistic. I caught myself literally saying out loud how I could really relate to Rourke and the things he was dealing with. Follow along with Rourke has he deals with life as a seventh grader and all the things that goes along with it . I highly recommend reading this book I think any age from Pre-teen up can easily enjoy this book. This is a newer author to me but I’m definitely looking forward to reading more from her.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2022-02-16 07:17:082022-03-02 15:12:48The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
This is a wonderful Middle School read. Rourke must navigate Middle School with his older brother Carson who has Autism. This read will touch your heart in many ways. The author does such a great job of developing her characters and drawing us into Rourke’s life.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Paula Sayershttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngPaula Sayers2022-02-16 07:16:422022-03-02 15:12:58The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Paula R Sayers
I was impressed with how the author had the character handle various situations. It showed real empathy and depth. Fantastic world building and the book dealt with complex emotions. For a middle grade/YA I was not expecting this. It was so much more. This was the first book I’ve tried from this author but definitely won’t be the last.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Williamshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Williams2022-02-15 07:42:442022-03-02 15:13:17The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Amanda Williams
This is an engaging, realistic, and well-written novel. When the novel opens, Rourke is in Grade 7, starting middle school, and is hoping for a fun year with friends, enjoying sports, and maybe making some new friends. His older brother Carson has autism and his parents have decided to reintegrate him into public school. And not just any school – Rourke’s school. Carson struggles a bit to fit in, and unfortunately causes more than one incident that embarrasses Rourke. Rourke loves his brother, but is sometimes caught between defending him and making the friendships he hopes to have. He feels a sense of responsibility for Carson, and so he worries a lot about how to best protect him.
I thought this book tackled a really interesting theme. Though Rourke is only 13, he spends a lot of time worrying about his vulnerable brother, while also having all the same challenges that middle schoolers face. He tries hard to make the best decisions for both of them, and his anxiety over Carson bleeds into all areas of his life. Learning how to manage competing demands with grace and loyalty is lesson that is universal. The story is nuanced and realistic, and very well thought out.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Shoebridgehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Shoebridge2022-02-13 21:52:212022-02-13 21:52:21The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Erica Shoebridge
I never thought that someone could depict all of the emotions and anxiety that someone experiences in middle school, but our author has definitely captured all of those emotions perfectly. The characters are endearing, the plot intriguing, and the tension and anxiety almost feel real. This story is full of friendship, sibling love, acceptance and so much more I simply couldn’t put it down. This book was so good that not only does it show all of the anxiety and angst of teenage drama, but also shows us the assurance that everyone has challenges. So if your looking for a good emotional book with a fantastic ending then pick up this one today.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Corbinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Corbin2022-02-13 21:49:292022-03-02 15:13:28The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Stephanie nicole
Becoming a teenager is difficult. It’s even more difficult when you have a sibling with special needs. Rourke is trying to make with his way in school and life while also caring for those around him, especially Carson. Rourke feels deeply and is incredible protective of those he cares about even when it means giving up what he wants. In true fashion, Rourke’s parents are trying to do their best and have no idea the burden their son is carrying until it’s too late. A refreshing perspective on siblings with special needs.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Megan Pesekhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMegan Pesek2022-02-13 21:33:052022-03-02 15:13:39The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Megan Pesek
This was a really interesting and captivating story. It let’s you inside the mind of someone that worries a lot and the impact that has on their lives. The author does a great job of explaining the feelings and sensations that Rourke experiences through his days when he is gripped by constant worry. It also delves into the feelings around being a teenage boy at school. The mixed emotions when encountering a girl he likes and the constant worry about protecting his older brother Carson. We also see how Rourke deals with his constant anxiety and the way he responds to it mentally. It is an endearing story focusing on relationship and the struggle to manage things when dealing with your own inner turmoil. It would be a great book for young adults to read as you come away with the feeling that each of us are unique and different and that just because we seem to be fine doesn’t mean that is always the case.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2022-02-13 21:31:252022-03-02 15:13:51The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Kerry Carr
The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl is a story aimed at middle school aged children, but I think it could be appreciated by readers of all ages. This story deals with childhood angst, ‘worries’ (anxiety), friendship, family dynamics, school life, challenges, and acceptance- while providing lessons along the way. We follow 12 year-old Rourke, who is an extreme worrywart, as he experiences all the angst that comes with having so much anxiety, as well as all the other challenges associated with middle school life. Add in some mysterious neighbours, concern for friends, dysfunctional family dynamics, sibling bonds, trying to fit in, and other ‘worries’- and this story becomes a lesson for us all. Well worth the read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2022-02-13 21:23:362022-03-02 15:14:02The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Angela Hayes
This is the best book I have read this year! As a special educator, I think we in the education field often overlook the siblings of special needs students. I am blown away with the insights gained from having read this book. The main character learns that everyone has differences, and differing abilities, not only his brother, but perhaps everyone in his world. This is a book every adult should read, for we all encounter people in our lives with differing abilities.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alison Risherhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlison Risher2022-02-12 15:58:272022-03-02 15:14:11The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Alison Risher
This is a great story that I enjoyed from beginning to end. This is a young adult story that shows a typical young adult life struggles. Rourke is just starting the seventh grade. Not only that but he also has a crush on a girl and a brother that is unpredictable. What will happen when life steps in and tragedy strikes? I enjoyed the characters and what they brought to the story. They are connectable and made the story easy to read. An engaging story that is entertaining and just a great story. Any young adult would enjoy this book. I highly recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2022-02-12 15:57:022022-03-02 15:14:30The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Bobbi Wagner
I had come across this book with intention to enjoy it, I did not expect to fall in love with this book or this author! But I truly did! I am moved by the words on the pages, it really got to my heart. It was a story I think all of us should read. I can not get over how amazing and thought through this was. It was different, than what I expected at first glance, I seriously am saying you need to read this, do not miss out!
As a sister of a brother whom is a wondaful boy, but gifted in a special way. (He is autistic) I really was moved and touched by this book. It really got to me. Having a sibling that is considered different and seeing how they act and have to view the world. And how the world views them. The aspects of how to view the world, and seeing how every family isn’t picture perfect was a wonderful view. I think it was a big eye opener for everyone that reads this. Even for me.
Another aspect I really enjoyed of this book, was that it was not all butterfly’s and unicorns. The family itself dealt with issues, emotions, and most of all, worked through everything as a family. It was powerful. It was realistic. It felt real, the feelings were real. This book really touched my heart and it is one I will not forget, and I will defiantly re-visit again. It is one that is well wroth a read and then some.
Loved this amazing novel and the amazing author who created it so much. Thank you to them for creating such a impacting story that warmed my heart in more than one way. I highly recommend the book and author. It is a must read. I highly say everyone needs to read this, no matter what.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorrene Huismanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorrene Huisman2022-02-12 07:47:022022-03-02 15:14:53The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Lorrene Huisman
This is a story for tweens as you follow along with Rourke and his trials and tribulations and the ups and downs in life. It has all the worries, angst, fears, and anxieties of kids of this age that are just trying to find themselves and fit in with others and especially at starting middle school. Our character is a worry wart, and his side kick and imaginary friend is always on hand to lend his advice. Tweens are going to enjoy this story, and adults should read it as well as it is not just a story, but it is also a teaching tool as well
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2022-02-11 07:51:382022-03-02 15:15:03The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Jenni Bishop
WHAT A BOOK! I was not expecting the young adult book that I picked up and read by a new author to me. I was expecting your typical middle school nonsense and mischievous shenanigans that accompany this age of a kid. What I got was something totally out of the ordinary and a story that truly touched my heart. PLEASE LET YOUR KIDS READ THIS BOOK! This story deals with some deep matters that are prevalent in many lives of our kids today, especially autism. The main character is a male that is so concerned with not only his friends, but his brother with special needs as well. There is a lot of laughter in this story mixed with some sadness and seriousness as well. But it is so heartwarming to read, and I highly recommend that all kids read this book. I think it will encourage them to look at their life as well as the lives of others in a more meaningful way.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Karen Pearmanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKaren Pearman2022-02-11 07:41:432022-03-02 15:15:13The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Karen Pearman
Rourke is hoping for a perfect seventh grade year. Or at least one where his gut isn’t twisted in worry. But with crazy neighbors, a mysterious girl he has a crush on, and an unpredictable brother, what’s the chance of that? Especially when tragedy strikes.
Mary Bleckwehl believes words matter. As a children’s writer she uses them to challenge readers to not just imagine a better world but to take action to make it so. Passionate about promoting literacy, Bleckwehl works to inspire young readers and writers to dream big and look for opportunities to take on challenges that will expand their awareness of the complex world they live in.
Bleckwehl grew up in an Iowa farm home with few books but a trove of experiences that are the foundation of her writing. As a writer, she draws on those farm kid experiences as well as her years of parenting and teaching. Bleckwehl’s three award-winning picture books, Henry you’re late AGAIN! Henry you’re hungry AGAIN? and Claire’s Hair showcase the humor and empathy she sees in children. She craves variety and thus writes non-fiction and for the middle grade audience as well. The Birthday Cookbook released in 2021 and is Bleckwehl’s fun and easy recipe book for kids who enjoy spending time in the kitchen. Her debut middle grade novel, The Worry Knot (January release) and four non-fiction books (in the Awesome Disgusting Careers series, September release) are available for readers in 2022.
Bleckwehl graduated from Wartburg College and received her M.S. in Educational Management from Lesley University in Boston. She lives in Northfield, Minnesota where she taught school. Together with her husband, she raised three children, a few unruly pets, and plenty of garden weeds. When she’s not dreaming up a new book idea, Bleckwehl can be found presenting to book lovers in schools, libraries and conferences or enjoying a peaceful pontoon ride with family.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/The-Worry-Knot.jpg1200764itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2022-02-10 00:04:572022-05-07 11:39:53The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman was a wonderfully told story. While the main characters are younger some people would consider this book a younger read, but the plot is very real to even a lot of adults. Her plot is fantastic, her settings are beautiful, and overall Ms. Nyman’s characters are wonderful. I actually read this book after reading it’s sequel and I can honestly say that I love both books equally and am looking forward to more books from Ms. Nyman.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Corbinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Corbin2021-09-14 21:18:252021-09-16 09:27:32Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Stephanie Nicole
Rocky is your typical twelve year old kid, but he has had a string of unfortunate life changes recently, his dad died and he and his mum have moved away from his childhood home in Whitman, to live with his grandpa in Tucker. They moved straight after the funeral, away from everything that he knew, where all his memories were made and he couldn’t understand why and whenever he asked about it, instead of answering him, his mum would just shut down and ignore the question.
As if it isn’t bad enough that Rocky is trying to come to terms with his dads death, he also has to start a new school mid way through the school year and so has to go and meet with the new school counsellor, but he doesn’t engage as much as she wants him to, his mind is too filled of memories to concentrate, especially a specific memory where he overheard his and his best friend’s mum talking about what to tell him about the way he passed away which makes Rocky determined to find out what that secret is. However, his day doesn’t go smoothly when he suddenly hears a vey familiar voice as he is walking to his first class of the day, it is his dad’s voice, he runs into the nearest bathroom to try and calm his racing heart and has a conversation with the voice in his head, but should he be doing that and is it even possible?
He eventually gets to his class and after finding out how behind he is in this subject, he is paired up with a girl called Olive to help him catch up, she is a force of nature and completely steamrolls with a confidence Rocky wishes he had and he agrees to swap numbers and meet with her later. At lunch he comes across a kid who is rude and leaves him alone at his table before finding another and is joined by Olive, as they get to know each other and agree to meet up after school, they develop a study plan, but when they start really talking, Rocky opens up about the mystery he is trying to solve and Olive is more than happy to help him along the way. Will Rocky and Olive be able to reveal the secret haunting his past, or will they be stumped at every turn and how does his dad’s disembodied voice come into it, will it be a help, or a hindrance? This is a cozy mystery for all ages which deals with a lot of themes in an easy to read way which keeps you entertained while engaged throughout in this fantastic story of a young boys life changing after a very sad event.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Roxsanne Lesieurhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRoxsanne Lesieur2021-09-14 07:38:392021-09-16 08:32:47Swallowed By A Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.
This is a story about a twelve-year-old girl Grace, whose only friends are the spooky sweet ghosts including her cat, Midnight. She starts enjoying the company of the ghosts till one day she finds out the reason why there are so many ghosts around her. There is a spell which was cast on these people three hundred years ago, which turned them into ghosts. Grace realizes that she has magical abilities and she is the one who is destined to break this spell. But breaking it comes with its own consequences, she will lose everyone who is near and dear to her, including Midnight. Will Grace succeed in her effort forms the plot of the story. It is a sweet and a spooky story, especially meant for teens and middle grade students. When I read this book, I was reminded of this movie Casper, which is about a sweet little ghost which befriends a girl in the castle. This book is similar to the movie. It brings forth the emotions of Grace, her courage, determination and her turmoil all described really well. There are all types of ghosts, some friendly, some grumpy, and each character is unique. It is a fast paced, fun read with a spooky element in it. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Anantha Rusumhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAnantha Rusum2020-06-22 22:37:102020-06-23 08:23:59Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by Anantha Rusum
Grace’s Ghosts was an excellent fast read. I sat down with this book and completely finished it within 1.5 hours. While this book is targeted towards young teenagers (middle school), as an adult, I loved this book too! Grace’s character building was excellent. You immediately feel connected to her and feel her emotions as they occur, as if they were your own. This story has many twists that leave you shocked until the very end. I would love to follow Grace on another adventure soon!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00TaKeisha McCroskeyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTaKeisha McCroskey2020-06-22 22:31:242020-06-23 06:34:56Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by TaKeisha McCroskey
I really enjoyed reading Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson. A young girl named Grace has a best friend Midnight, who happens to be a ghost. All of Grace’s friends are ghosts but she really doesn’t mind, anything is better than the kids at school. Grace finds out that her town, Tansy, is under a curse. If Grace figures out how to break the curse she could risk losing Midnight and all of her friends. I loved this book because I feel that it could speak to a lot of kids around Grace’s age. Many kids have a hard time fitting in and Grace shows how to embrace being different. All the characters were really likable, especially Grace, the story line was well developed, and as an adult I was kept interested throughout the whole story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kayla Interdonatohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKayla Interdonato2020-06-22 19:37:402020-06-22 21:59:58Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by Kayla Interdonato
Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson is a fast paced paranormal story for older kids about 10 – 12ish but having said that I enjoyed it. Stephenie has given us an original story where there are magic, ghosts, secrets and curses and a best friend who is a cat. It is fun, witty and spooky and thoroughly enjoyable, as we take a twisty journey along with Grace as she works with her ghostly cohorts to get to the root of the problem in town.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2020-06-20 19:41:502020-06-20 21:51:29Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by Jenni Bishop
This is the first book I read by Risa. I was hesitant because it’s listed as a children’s book but I enjoyed it. The mystery that surrounds it is interesting but remains a mystery until the end. It’s well-written and a very well-developed idea. Plenty of emotion with just as much realism. You’ll have to read to get to know Rocky and his story. But you’ll be as Enchanted as I was!!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Raylene Greenhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRaylene Green2020-06-18 22:46:592020-06-19 07:25:37Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Raylene Green
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman is her debut book and the story of a young boy who has lost his father but all may not be as it seems. The story is engaging and deals with sensitive issues which Risa has done well. This tale evoked emotions from laughter to tears as we struggle along the way and go on this adventure with Rocky and his friend as they look into the mystery of his father’s disappearance. Even though the story is aimed at a younger audience I still found myself invested in the outcome.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2020-06-18 22:12:272020-06-19 07:24:26Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Jenni Bishop
“One dead father. One lying mother”. Twelve year old Rocky overheard his Mum admit that the story she had told him of his fathers death was a lie. Rocky does not know how he can trust her following that revelation. Then soon after his fathers funeral a ‘For-Sale’ sign appears in front of their house, a house full of memories of his dad. Having moved house and having to start at a new school, Rocky suddenly hears the voice of his father, who is insisting that he return to his old town for answers, but can you take advice from a dead person? Rocky then makes a new friend in Olive who offers to be Rocky’s assistant sleuth and help him discover the truth. Rocky and Olive then go on a journey of risks, eavesdropping and snooping all to discover the truth about his father and find out why his mother lied. This is a contemporary mystery with an interesting storyline and great characters in Rocky and Olive. Both of the main characters were likeable and relatable and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the book. It had me hooked from the start and I found it an emotional story, and one I felt fully immersed in whilst reading.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2020-06-18 12:00:462020-06-18 12:04:50Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Jennifer Gordon
I have this really annoying habit of underestimating or even by passing books aimed toward a younger audience when in reality they have been some of the best books I’ve read. Swallowed by a Secret is certainly a 5 star book that falls into this category. This book has everything, including the ability to make me cry, harder than I would like to admit. The characters, though young, (I mean the main character is thirteen) were really fantastic. I struggle to find the words to describe this book, I want to say heavy, but that isn’t it. The author did a great job navigating through delicate subjects in a captivating, well written way. This was the first book read by this author and it will most certainly leave a lasting impression. Impressed is an understatement.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Felicia Bateshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFelicia Bates2020-06-18 11:02:242020-06-18 11:39:42Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Felicia Bates
5 Star Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman is my first read and I can honestly say it won’t be my last. This story is aimed for ages nine to thirteen but can be read by older kids and adults as well. What an emotional journey this story takes us on. I found myself unable to put it down once I started reading. Rocky is a twelve year who has lost his father and is now moving and switching schools. He overhears his mom telling the truth about what happened to his dad . Rocky and his friend Olive set out to find the secret. Find out what happens next in this must read .I can’t wait to read more.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2020-06-17 23:56:292020-06-18 08:32:15Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
What a great story! Swallowed By A Secret by Risa Nyman is a great emotional story for preteens! In this story we meet Rocky. Rocky is a 12-year old boy who just lost his father. However, there is a twist to his father’s death that is a huge secret. Rocky is bound and determined to find out what that secret is. In the midst of everything, he has to move mid-year of school. The good news is he does befriend Olive who decides that she is going to help him find out what exactly happened to his dad. Olive is bright and cheerful and a great addition to this story. These two together come up with some disasters of ideas but together they are great! This was such awesome reading that I didn’t want to put the book down even though it was for preteens! It really was an emotional roller coaster though so don’t forget the tissues! I really was impressed with the book and the writing style of this author. I can’t wait to read another book from her again!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissa Agenahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa Agena2020-06-17 23:52:302020-06-18 08:29:55Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Melissa Agena
Grace’s Ghosts By Stephenie Wilson Peterson ☆☆☆☆☆ This is a great Chapter book for middle school students and adults. This was a fun book to read. It has it all, ghosts, wild imagination starter, potions, spells and a 12 year old who can see ghosts. But I know that kids will love this story starting on page one. In walks Grace. Does she really see ghosts? Give this story an audience.
Stephenie Wilson Peterson has hit the nail on the head with this one. Kids who can read chapter books, will want to read this book. Those who do not read well, would love it if you read it to them. I love Grace and her self connection with the characters searching through this story. All I can say is What A Fun Fantastic story for all to enjoy! Nice job Stephenie Wilson Peterson!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Cindy Mayberryhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCindy Mayberry2020-06-17 20:29:322020-06-18 00:32:35Grace’s Ghosts By Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by Cindy Mayberry
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