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Dust
In this unmissable story of friendship, courage, and healing, a girl struggling to breathe befriends a boy shrouded in dust, from bestselling and award-winning author Dusti Bowling.
After Avalyn nearly died from an asthma attack, her parents moved her to the clear, dry air of Clear Canyon City, Arizona. And for the last ten years, she’s been able to breathe. That is, until Adam showed up.
Quiet and disheveled, Adam is an instant target for the bullies who have plagued Avalyn and her friends. As Avalyn gets to know him, she begins to suspect that the sudden, strange increase in dust storms around town is somehow connected to his emotions. She thinks his problems may be even worse at home, especially when massive black walls of dust start rolling in after the school day. Will she find a way to stand up for her new friend? Her life may just depend on it.
A page-turning blend of mystery and action, Dusti Bowling delivers a powerful tour de force, perfect for readers of Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, Lynda Mullaly Hunt, and Erin Entrada Kelly.
After Avalyn nearly died from an asthma attack, her parents moved her to the clear, dry air of Clear Canyon City, Arizona. And for the last ten years, she’s been able to breathe. That is, until Adam showed up.
Quiet and disheveled, Adam is an instant target for the bullies who have plagued Avalyn and her friends. As Avalyn gets to know him, she begins to suspect that the sudden, strange increase in dust storms around town is somehow connected to his emotions. She thinks his problems may be even worse at home, especially when massive black walls of dust start rolling in after the school day. Will she find a way to stand up for her new friend? Her life may just depend on it.
A page-turning blend of mystery and action, Dusti Bowling delivers a powerful tour de force, perfect for readers of Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, Lynda Mullaly Hunt, and Erin Entrada Kelly.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2023
69 people are currently reading
3840 people want to read
About the author
Dusti Bowling
22 books1,319 followersDUSTI BOWLING grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona, where, as her family will tell you, she always had her nose in a book. She released her first middle grade novel in 2017 and hasn't stopped writing since.
Dusti's books have won the Reading the West Award, the Sakura Medal, a Golden Kite Honor, the William Allen White Children's Book Award, and have been nominated for a Cybil and over fifty state awards. Her books are Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selections and have been named best books of the year by the Chicago Public Library, Kirkus, Bank Street College of Education, A Mighty Girl, Shelf Awareness, and many more.
Dusti currently lives in Eagar, Arizona with her husband, three daughters, and a bunch of farm animals.
Follow her on Twitter at @DustiBowling.
Dusti's books have won the Reading the West Award, the Sakura Medal, a Golden Kite Honor, the William Allen White Children's Book Award, and have been nominated for a Cybil and over fifty state awards. Her books are Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selections and have been named best books of the year by the Chicago Public Library, Kirkus, Bank Street College of Education, A Mighty Girl, Shelf Awareness, and many more.
Dusti currently lives in Eagar, Arizona with her husband, three daughters, and a bunch of farm animals.
Follow her on Twitter at @DustiBowling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 310 reviews
August 6, 2023
Thank you all for reading another piece of my heart ♥️
July 30, 2023
OOooof this was SUCH a big-hearted middle grade novel. I adored the main character Avalyn and her struggles with asthma.
The asthma disability rep was EXCELLENT in this book but what made it really special for me was the focus on the importance of words (Avalyn is a spelling bee enthusiast) - words and definitions are sprinkled throughout the book (a great way for young readers to expand their vocabularies). But even more crucial was the way Avalyn's words are her 'super power' in this story.
With her voice she finds the courage to speak up when one of her friends is being physically abused by a relative and the author handles this subject so well!! Great on audio narrated by Laura Knight Keating and HIGHLY recommended!!
This is definitely going to be a standout middle grade read for me this year!! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
CW: bullying, domestic violence (physical abuse of a minor)
The asthma disability rep was EXCELLENT in this book but what made it really special for me was the focus on the importance of words (Avalyn is a spelling bee enthusiast) - words and definitions are sprinkled throughout the book (a great way for young readers to expand their vocabularies). But even more crucial was the way Avalyn's words are her 'super power' in this story.
With her voice she finds the courage to speak up when one of her friends is being physically abused by a relative and the author handles this subject so well!! Great on audio narrated by Laura Knight Keating and HIGHLY recommended!!
This is definitely going to be a standout middle grade read for me this year!! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
CW: bullying, domestic violence (physical abuse of a minor)
September 12, 2023
Format: audiobook ~ Narrator: Laura Knight Keating
Content: 4.5 stars ~ Narration: 5 stars
Complete audiobook review
Due to her asthma attacks triggered by humid air, Avalyn moved to Arizona as a toddler, where the air is drier. For the last decade, she has been able to breathe normally. However, there is now a sudden increase in dust storms in her hometown.
But she doesn’t have time for health issues now. Avalyn’s thoughts are occupied with her interests, friends, and bullies at school. She is a spelling enthusiast and has an upcoming spelling bee competition. Also, a quiet, mysterious boy moves into her town.
Dust is an excellent middle-grade novel with a powerful message. It deals with serious topics like bullying and child abuse. I love the magical realism woven into the story. New words and spellings are a great addition to this novel. Readers can expand their vocabulary. Dust made me think of another excellent middle-grade book: Aftermath by Emily Barth Isler. So, if you enjoyed one of those, I definitely recommend reading the other.
Thanks to Hachette Audio (Little, Brown Young Readers) for the advanced copy and this opportunity! This is a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
Content: 4.5 stars ~ Narration: 5 stars
Complete audiobook review
Due to her asthma attacks triggered by humid air, Avalyn moved to Arizona as a toddler, where the air is drier. For the last decade, she has been able to breathe normally. However, there is now a sudden increase in dust storms in her hometown.
But she doesn’t have time for health issues now. Avalyn’s thoughts are occupied with her interests, friends, and bullies at school. She is a spelling enthusiast and has an upcoming spelling bee competition. Also, a quiet, mysterious boy moves into her town.
Dust is an excellent middle-grade novel with a powerful message. It deals with serious topics like bullying and child abuse. I love the magical realism woven into the story. New words and spellings are a great addition to this novel. Readers can expand their vocabulary. Dust made me think of another excellent middle-grade book: Aftermath by Emily Barth Isler. So, if you enjoyed one of those, I definitely recommend reading the other.
Thanks to Hachette Audio (Little, Brown Young Readers) for the advanced copy and this opportunity! This is a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
September 4, 2025
I'm torn between giving this 5 stars for the story and characters and 4 stars for content. So, 4 stars for content it is just because I want parents of MG readers to know what's in here. It's handled with the utmost care by the author, but still. You can find more info in the Content Warnings section of this review, mild spoilers will be present.
Characters:
Avalon is our main character, and she is spunky, sweet, and so fun! She loves spelling and Xmen and her friends. She has asthma and battles, feeling like people coddle her and wanting to be normal.
Nan and Dillon are Avalyn's best friends... Nan is so fun, and she's sweet! Dillion... I love how Dusti is always breaking stereotypes, such as just because Dillion is a boy who wears pink converses at times, it doesn't make him any less a boy.🩵 So wholesome.
Adam is another side character... a bit of a mystery, and I really felt for him.
Themes:
Speaking up, even if it means you have to spell it out for someone. if you know someone is getting hurt, you have to say something. Use your voice, use your breaths to change the world.
Language:
Some general name calling and insults.
Romance:
N/A
Violence/Gore:
No gore... some bullying that results in shoving, stealing an inhaler, dust storms, and a near death experience.
Content Warnings:
This book deals with bullying and s*xual abuse. On the bullying we have name calling and mean things such as dumping dirt on people's heads, tripping people, stealing Avalyn's inhaler, and even forcing a bra onto another male character in front of many of his peers. We're shown how bad bullying can be, especially when no one speaks out and the bullies get to go unchecked.
On the s*xual abuse front...Avalyn goes to check on a friend. When no one answers the door and a dust storm starts, she tries a knob and the door opens. She goes in and finds her friend...mentions with parts exposed that were only his to touch. He quickly covers up (mentions that the covers are dirty and stained) but, of course, is embarrassed and ashamed. Avalon wars about whether she should tell because she doesn't want to lose her friend... but in the end, she does the right thing.
I believe that if given to the right audience, this book could be super impactful and change lives by teaching kids to speak out. I just want parents to be aware of the content because giving it to their kids to read.
Overall:
This is a fun story with a deep theme hidden under the surface...it packs a powerful punch. Avalyn is endearing and I love all the lessons sprinkled within the pages!
Recommend for ages 11+ who either need this story or have been prepped on the content.
Characters:
Avalon is our main character, and she is spunky, sweet, and so fun! She loves spelling and Xmen and her friends. She has asthma and battles, feeling like people coddle her and wanting to be normal.
Nan and Dillon are Avalyn's best friends... Nan is so fun, and she's sweet! Dillion... I love how Dusti is always breaking stereotypes, such as just because Dillion is a boy who wears pink converses at times, it doesn't make him any less a boy.🩵 So wholesome.
Adam is another side character... a bit of a mystery, and I really felt for him.
Themes:
Speaking up, even if it means you have to spell it out for someone. if you know someone is getting hurt, you have to say something. Use your voice, use your breaths to change the world.
Language:
Some general name calling and insults.
Romance:
N/A
Violence/Gore:
No gore... some bullying that results in shoving, stealing an inhaler, dust storms, and a near death experience.
Content Warnings:
This book deals with bullying and s*xual abuse. On the bullying we have name calling and mean things such as dumping dirt on people's heads, tripping people, stealing Avalyn's inhaler, and even forcing a bra onto another male character in front of many of his peers. We're shown how bad bullying can be, especially when no one speaks out and the bullies get to go unchecked.
On the s*xual abuse front...Avalyn goes to check on a friend. When no one answers the door and a dust storm starts, she tries a knob and the door opens. She goes in and finds her friend...mentions with parts exposed that were only his to touch. He quickly covers up (mentions that the covers are dirty and stained) but, of course, is embarrassed and ashamed. Avalon wars about whether she should tell because she doesn't want to lose her friend... but in the end, she does the right thing.
I believe that if given to the right audience, this book could be super impactful and change lives by teaching kids to speak out. I just want parents to be aware of the content because giving it to their kids to read.
Overall:
This is a fun story with a deep theme hidden under the surface...it packs a powerful punch. Avalyn is endearing and I love all the lessons sprinkled within the pages!
Recommend for ages 11+ who either need this story or have been prepped on the content.
July 2, 2023
One of the few perfect middle grade books I’ve read.
💨
Avalyn has severe asthma, so bad that her parents moved her from Oklahoma to Arizona when she almost died from an asthma attack at two years old. The air in Arizona has always been good for Avalyn’s lungs until a new boy moves to town. Adam is quiet, unkempt, and shrouded in dust and darkness. Avalyn feels an instant connection to him and wonders if the dust storms popping up lately have to do with Adam’s presence. Avalyn feels connected to Adam’s emotions and she knows something isn’t right with him, but when she asks questions he shuts her down. When the school bullies start targeting Adam, in addition to Avalyn and her friends, she wonders if she’ll have to strength to stand up for herself, her friends and this new boy who might need a champion more than anyone.
💨
Just when I think Dusti can’t write anything better than her last title, she stuns me with this MG book Dust covers important topics that EVERY 5th-8th grader should read. It’s honest and hard and descriptive and deep—I couldn’t put it down. You can spell Avalyn like this: C-O-U-R-A-G-E-O-U-S. This novel releases August 15. Read it with your kids, your students, your teacher friends and librarians. I see Newbery in Dusti’s future.
CW: child abuse, parental death (recounted), blood, hospitalization, asthma, asthma attack, bullying/tormenting
💨
Avalyn has severe asthma, so bad that her parents moved her from Oklahoma to Arizona when she almost died from an asthma attack at two years old. The air in Arizona has always been good for Avalyn’s lungs until a new boy moves to town. Adam is quiet, unkempt, and shrouded in dust and darkness. Avalyn feels an instant connection to him and wonders if the dust storms popping up lately have to do with Adam’s presence. Avalyn feels connected to Adam’s emotions and she knows something isn’t right with him, but when she asks questions he shuts her down. When the school bullies start targeting Adam, in addition to Avalyn and her friends, she wonders if she’ll have to strength to stand up for herself, her friends and this new boy who might need a champion more than anyone.
💨
Just when I think Dusti can’t write anything better than her last title, she stuns me with this MG book Dust covers important topics that EVERY 5th-8th grader should read. It’s honest and hard and descriptive and deep—I couldn’t put it down. You can spell Avalyn like this: C-O-U-R-A-G-E-O-U-S. This novel releases August 15. Read it with your kids, your students, your teacher friends and librarians. I see Newbery in Dusti’s future.
CW: child abuse, parental death (recounted), blood, hospitalization, asthma, asthma attack, bullying/tormenting
September 3, 2023
I am a huge fan of Dusti Bowling and own most of her books. I’ve talked about her to any friends looking for a book recommendation. This is not my favorite. Not because the writing isn’t fantastic, because it is. But it felt so so heavy. So many heavy topics. Sexual abuse, assault, bullying, sickness… the bullying is bad. And so relentless. I loved the focus on speaking up and needing to say something, but was shocked at how many people stood by and no adults noticed. I get this is real life for many people, but the heaviness felt overpowering for me. And wasn’t balanced out by the ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2023
one word: amazing.
I read this in one sitting. This is a book that needs to get into every student's hands. The way Ms. Bowling is able to capture both Avalyn and Adam's feelings came straight across the page. Heart-wrenching is how I would explain the feelings I got when Avalyn would "touch" Adam. I truly believe in empaths and this book helped me understand what a person who identifies as an empath feels. It cannot be easy.
She addresses the issues of bullying and abuse delicately. It's not an easy subject to address but she does it in a way that a middle schooler will understand it. Thank you for writing such an incredible book. I am now going to take a deep dive into her other books.
I read this in one sitting. This is a book that needs to get into every student's hands. The way Ms. Bowling is able to capture both Avalyn and Adam's feelings came straight across the page. Heart-wrenching is how I would explain the feelings I got when Avalyn would "touch" Adam. I truly believe in empaths and this book helped me understand what a person who identifies as an empath feels. It cannot be easy.
She addresses the issues of bullying and abuse delicately. It's not an easy subject to address but she does it in a way that a middle schooler will understand it. Thank you for writing such an incredible book. I am now going to take a deep dive into her other books.
August 3, 2023
The clean city of Arizona seems to be the answer to Avalyn's Asthma issues. But when a new boy appears in town, there is a cloud of dust. Focused upon bullying, assault and abuse this is a beautiful take on school-going children's life with a hint of magical realism element to it.
The unspoken ways in which the author shows us the impact of the surroundings in which a child grows, developing an acceptance level to unacceptable things. Be it letting others downcast them, bully them or abuse them. The underlying importance of a small push towards change goes a long way to building up a domino effect. The approach to introducing these topics to children is done in a very subtle way. Half the time I was busy deducing the sandstorm mystery while the story was also hinting towards other angles.
Thank you @netgalley @hachetteaudio @dustibowling for the ARC.
The unspoken ways in which the author shows us the impact of the surroundings in which a child grows, developing an acceptance level to unacceptable things. Be it letting others downcast them, bully them or abuse them. The underlying importance of a small push towards change goes a long way to building up a domino effect. The approach to introducing these topics to children is done in a very subtle way. Half the time I was busy deducing the sandstorm mystery while the story was also hinting towards other angles.
Thank you @netgalley @hachetteaudio @dustibowling for the ARC.
August 3, 2023
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my E-ARC of Dust!
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
🌵 live in the desert
🦹🏾♀️ are obsessed with X-Men
🤐 have ever kept a secret
👊🏻 were a victim of bullying
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
After Avalyn nearly died from an asthma attack, her parents moved her to the clear, dry air of Clear Canyon City, Arizona. And for the last ten years, she’s been able to breathe. That is, until Adam showed up.
Quiet and unkempt, Adam is an instant target for the bullies who have plagued Avalyn and her friends. As Avalyn gets to know him, she begins to suspect that the sudden, strange increase in dust storms around town are somehow connected to his emotions. She thinks his problems may be even worse at home, especially when massive black walls of dust start rolling in after the school day. Will she find a way to stand up for her new friend? Her life may just depend on it.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
Wow, this story was absolutely incredible in so many ways. I loved the fact mixed with fiction found throughout this story as well as the many ways kids these days could relate to the characters. Avalyn has asthma, her best friends are constantly being bullied, and a new kid is hiding a dark secret. Even though I’m 20 years older than these kids, I felt like I could really understand the pain they were going through, especially since I was a victim of bullying around that age as well. As a mom though, all I wanted was for Avalyn to talk to her parents about everything going on at school. Overall, this story was well written and I absolutely appreciated the fact that the author included a note for children to reach out for help if they are being abused by someone they should trust.
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
🌵 live in the desert
🦹🏾♀️ are obsessed with X-Men
🤐 have ever kept a secret
👊🏻 were a victim of bullying
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
After Avalyn nearly died from an asthma attack, her parents moved her to the clear, dry air of Clear Canyon City, Arizona. And for the last ten years, she’s been able to breathe. That is, until Adam showed up.
Quiet and unkempt, Adam is an instant target for the bullies who have plagued Avalyn and her friends. As Avalyn gets to know him, she begins to suspect that the sudden, strange increase in dust storms around town are somehow connected to his emotions. She thinks his problems may be even worse at home, especially when massive black walls of dust start rolling in after the school day. Will she find a way to stand up for her new friend? Her life may just depend on it.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
Wow, this story was absolutely incredible in so many ways. I loved the fact mixed with fiction found throughout this story as well as the many ways kids these days could relate to the characters. Avalyn has asthma, her best friends are constantly being bullied, and a new kid is hiding a dark secret. Even though I’m 20 years older than these kids, I felt like I could really understand the pain they were going through, especially since I was a victim of bullying around that age as well. As a mom though, all I wanted was for Avalyn to talk to her parents about everything going on at school. Overall, this story was well written and I absolutely appreciated the fact that the author included a note for children to reach out for help if they are being abused by someone they should trust.
March 13, 2024
"Thank you."
August 19, 2023
5 Reasons to Read
Family
I loved the family dynamic between Avalyn and her parents. They were a bit over protective but it was all because they loved her. I enjoyed the banter between her and her dad when it came to identifying and spelling words throughout their conversations. It is an adorable way to show their connection with each other.
Asthma Disability Rep
Avalyn was diagnosed with severe asthma as a toddler and ever since then her parents have kept a close watch on her to ensure she has all the resources she needs to keep it under control. I thought this representation was done well. It was the first book I've read with this rep and I felt it was well done. It is such a common condition among young children and adults so I appreciated Avalyn's experience and the importance it has in books for young readers going through the same things.
Friendship
Avalyn and her friends seem to be at the center of the meanie butt boys constant torment. When Adam, the new kid in town, walks in he is no exception to their barrages. Avalyn befriends Adam because there is something about him that draws her to him and leads to a disruption within her friendship circle. I felt the portrayal of friendship and how much changes in that part of life was well developed. Middle grade is a favorite of mine because the stories revolve around a pinnacle point in my own life when I went through so much change in who I was and who became important to me.
X-Men
X-Men are my favorite characters in the Marvel universe. It was so learning about the different X-Men characters and reading about the impact they had on Avalyn's life. I thought this was a great way to connect Avalyn and Adam too. They both sat and discussed which X-Men they would be and why. It felt like a great counterpart to the bullying they faced on a daily basis.
Secrets
Avalyn doesn't tell her parents or teachers about the extent of the bullying she and her friends been subjected to. It isn't until she goes to Adam's house to discover a dark secret he's been hiding that she finally decides to speak up.
Family
I loved the family dynamic between Avalyn and her parents. They were a bit over protective but it was all because they loved her. I enjoyed the banter between her and her dad when it came to identifying and spelling words throughout their conversations. It is an adorable way to show their connection with each other.
Asthma Disability Rep
Avalyn was diagnosed with severe asthma as a toddler and ever since then her parents have kept a close watch on her to ensure she has all the resources she needs to keep it under control. I thought this representation was done well. It was the first book I've read with this rep and I felt it was well done. It is such a common condition among young children and adults so I appreciated Avalyn's experience and the importance it has in books for young readers going through the same things.
Friendship
Avalyn and her friends seem to be at the center of the meanie butt boys constant torment. When Adam, the new kid in town, walks in he is no exception to their barrages. Avalyn befriends Adam because there is something about him that draws her to him and leads to a disruption within her friendship circle. I felt the portrayal of friendship and how much changes in that part of life was well developed. Middle grade is a favorite of mine because the stories revolve around a pinnacle point in my own life when I went through so much change in who I was and who became important to me.
X-Men
X-Men are my favorite characters in the Marvel universe. It was so learning about the different X-Men characters and reading about the impact they had on Avalyn's life. I thought this was a great way to connect Avalyn and Adam too. They both sat and discussed which X-Men they would be and why. It felt like a great counterpart to the bullying they faced on a daily basis.
Secrets
Avalyn doesn't tell her parents or teachers about the extent of the bullying she and her friends been subjected to. It isn't until she goes to Adam's house to discover a dark secret he's been hiding that she finally decides to speak up.
May 31, 2023
After Avalyn nearly died from an asthma attack, her parents moved her to the clear, dry air of Clear Canyon City, AZ. And for the last ten years, she’s been able to breathe. That is, until Adam shows up.
Adam is an instant target for the bullies who have plagued Avalyn and her friends. As Avalyn gets to know him, she begins to suspect that the sudden, strange increase in dust storms around town is somehow connected to his emotions. She thinks his problems may be worse at home. Will Avalyn find a way to stand up for her new friend and combat the daily bullying that she and her friends face.
Dusti Bowling has a great way of telling stories through the eyes of a middle grade student. She handles the subject of abuse and bullying tenderly and can be trusted with a young person’s heart. “A reminder that even after the worst drought and dust storms, something could still survive And not just survive, but bloom bigger and more beautiful than ever before.”
Adam is an instant target for the bullies who have plagued Avalyn and her friends. As Avalyn gets to know him, she begins to suspect that the sudden, strange increase in dust storms around town is somehow connected to his emotions. She thinks his problems may be worse at home. Will Avalyn find a way to stand up for her new friend and combat the daily bullying that she and her friends face.
Dusti Bowling has a great way of telling stories through the eyes of a middle grade student. She handles the subject of abuse and bullying tenderly and can be trusted with a young person’s heart. “A reminder that even after the worst drought and dust storms, something could still survive And not just survive, but bloom bigger and more beautiful than ever before.”
September 3, 2023
I love this author, but not this book. It felt like 150 pages of a dust storm, 3 pages of actual plot and character insight, and 5 pages of wrapping things up, but very poorly. I never got the character story I was looking for OR the resolution. This book bored me more than anything else I’ve read this year. I almost didn’t finish it.
February 6, 2024
There aren’t many higher compliments for me than “I read this in a day because I could NOT put it down.” I love the possible sci-fi elements and Avalyn’s extreme empathy. I appreciated the terrifying asthma rep (and food allergy rep!). And I am so grateful for this book’s message. ❤️ Thank you to the publisher and Edelweiss for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2024
I like the anti-bullying message, and I think it's important, but I also think the narrative oversimplifies bullying – although it does a lot better than many other books.
As a high school teacher, most of the "bullying" that I see is responsive to behavior/situations that have slowly been escalating for a long time. Someone who likes things that none of their peers do (like Avalyn with the X-Men) can be excluded just because nobody else wants to do things that they like doing, and doesn't think to include them in activities because they don't like those activities. Without a strong connection to peers, the "loner" develops their own sense of style; there's no internal pull to get matching T-shirts or cheer for the same sports team. This marks them as even more of an outsider. And their peers begin to comment on that.
Humans are social creatures, and we're clannish. We tend to divide into "our people" and "not our people." And it's not inherently bad to form bonds with "our people." Unfortunately, one of the ways that humans reinforce their standing in their own group is to otherize those who are known not to be in that group.
It is rare to see a "Meanie Butt Gang" in high school. It's more common to see milder exclusions from multiple different social groups.
As a high school teacher, most of the "bullying" that I see is responsive to behavior/situations that have slowly been escalating for a long time. Someone who likes things that none of their peers do (like Avalyn with the X-Men) can be excluded just because nobody else wants to do things that they like doing, and doesn't think to include them in activities because they don't like those activities. Without a strong connection to peers, the "loner" develops their own sense of style; there's no internal pull to get matching T-shirts or cheer for the same sports team. This marks them as even more of an outsider. And their peers begin to comment on that.
Humans are social creatures, and we're clannish. We tend to divide into "our people" and "not our people." And it's not inherently bad to form bonds with "our people." Unfortunately, one of the ways that humans reinforce their standing in their own group is to otherize those who are known not to be in that group.
It is rare to see a "Meanie Butt Gang" in high school. It's more common to see milder exclusions from multiple different social groups.
June 29, 2023
I started reading this novel knowing only that a girl with asthma meets a boy who seems shrouded in dust. I was blown away by the depth of this story that believably presents hard, sensitive topics in an appropriate way for middle graders. While there is an element of fantasy woven throughout, difficult situations are realistically presented with characters who draw you in and who stay with you long afterward. We see 12-year-old Avalyn gradually becoming empowered by the situations she faces. I could not put this book down and read it straight through. Then I went and read it again. This is a powerful story that should be required reading for grades 5-8. There is a section entitled “Author’s Notes” which provides additional information and a personal message to her young readers. Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little Brown Books for Young Readers for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little Brown Books for Young Readers for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2024
I truly believe that the people rating this 1-2 stars for the tough content didn’t actually read the book or they let their kids read it without being educated themselves and got upset about it. Dusti Bowling isn’t trying to trick you. There’s no graphic content in here.
Is it heavy? Yes. Is it hard to talk about? That’s kind of the point. Bowling’s tips for readers at the end of book are almost the exact same tips and information we teach our 3rd graders. If you don’t think your individual child is ready for this book, I respect your choice and understanding of your child. However, you don’t get to speak for everyone. There are a lot more kids that need this story than you realize - it’s unfortunate, but it’s true.
The craziest part about this review is it stems from 2 small (again, non-graphic) scenes at the climax of the book. These events are really close to the end. Despite what it may seem, Dust is about way more than those two scenes.
Is it heavy? Yes. Is it hard to talk about? That’s kind of the point. Bowling’s tips for readers at the end of book are almost the exact same tips and information we teach our 3rd graders. If you don’t think your individual child is ready for this book, I respect your choice and understanding of your child. However, you don’t get to speak for everyone. There are a lot more kids that need this story than you realize - it’s unfortunate, but it’s true.
The craziest part about this review is it stems from 2 small (again, non-graphic) scenes at the climax of the book. These events are really close to the end. Despite what it may seem, Dust is about way more than those two scenes.
July 22, 2023
There are so many things I love about this book! The main character has asthma, which is nice to see in a middle-grade book. It takes place in the desert, which is far from the Midwest and which is a setting many of my own students know nothing about. It has some magical realism, which seemed so real that sometimes I had difficulty suspending my belief. And it deals with a sensitive issue in a sensitive way that I believe middle-grade readers will understand. If you have read Dusti Bowling before, then you know to expect a well-written book. If you have not read anything by her, then you will want to pick this one up when it comes out! You will not be disappointed!
*I won this book in a Twitter giveaway by the author, and I am honored to have been given the chance to read and review it ahead of its publishing date.
*I won this book in a Twitter giveaway by the author, and I am honored to have been given the chance to read and review it ahead of its publishing date.
August 5, 2023
Audiobook. Powerful, heartbreaking, and important book for everyone. I sincerely appreciate the way Bowling tackles difficult issues in many of her books with care, empathy, and empowerment. In this book, Avalyn lives in Crystal Canyon AZ with her family specifically because she has severe asthma and other allergies. Middle school is a struggle because of a number of bullies tormenting her and her friends. When a new boy, Adam, moves into her town and suddenly there are serious dust storms happening. In a magical realism plot line, the storms are tied to Adam and Avalyn learns that Adam is being abused by his uncle. Will Avalyn find her voice to help him? To stand up and call out the bullies? The end of the book explains clearly and kindly to readers how to get help if they are being abused.
April 13, 2023
4 stars
Do I have many books to read and review before this one is scheduled to publish? YES. Did that stop me from reading this one in one sitting as soon as I received it? Of course not. This is my fourth Dusti Bowling read, and - as expected - it did not disappoint.
Avalyn, the m.c., has a unique medical situation. Her asthma is so severe that she has almost died from it (readers learn in the first chapter), her parents and school have her medications on hand (or in pocket), and her family even relocated to another state to support her climate-related health. As readers might imagine, Avalyn and everyone around her are always thinking about whether she is safe and healthy. So, when an unusually dusty period hits her region, it's no surprise that Avalyn begins to suffer not only physically but also psychologically.
Where Bowling really shines is in the pairing of Avalyn's physical condition with the rampant bullying that she and several peers experience at school. There's a nearly supernatural connection between the environment and *the environment*, and this creative tie and certainly how this all comes together are absolute highlights of the book.
At times, Avalyn and company read really young (even for the audience), and while this may be attributed to their general lack of coolness, I found this a tad distracting at times (their name for the mean kids is a good but not exclusive example). There's also a bit of a quick and clean wrap on the ending (again, not the most shocking scenario for the audience but still noticeable to this reader).
Overall, this is yet another solid middle grade feat from a consistent author, and while there are some expected wins for these characters, there's an intriguing dash of something extra to enjoy here, too.
TW: References to child abuse
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Do I have many books to read and review before this one is scheduled to publish? YES. Did that stop me from reading this one in one sitting as soon as I received it? Of course not. This is my fourth Dusti Bowling read, and - as expected - it did not disappoint.
Avalyn, the m.c., has a unique medical situation. Her asthma is so severe that she has almost died from it (readers learn in the first chapter), her parents and school have her medications on hand (or in pocket), and her family even relocated to another state to support her climate-related health. As readers might imagine, Avalyn and everyone around her are always thinking about whether she is safe and healthy. So, when an unusually dusty period hits her region, it's no surprise that Avalyn begins to suffer not only physically but also psychologically.
Where Bowling really shines is in the pairing of Avalyn's physical condition with the rampant bullying that she and several peers experience at school. There's a nearly supernatural connection between the environment and *the environment*, and this creative tie and certainly how this all comes together are absolute highlights of the book.
At times, Avalyn and company read really young (even for the audience), and while this may be attributed to their general lack of coolness, I found this a tad distracting at times (their name for the mean kids is a good but not exclusive example). There's also a bit of a quick and clean wrap on the ending (again, not the most shocking scenario for the audience but still noticeable to this reader).
Overall, this is yet another solid middle grade feat from a consistent author, and while there are some expected wins for these characters, there's an intriguing dash of something extra to enjoy here, too.
TW: References to child abuse
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
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February 5, 2024So, I didn't read the reviews very carefully before going into this, so the story took a serious turn that I wasn't expecting. I really liked how Bowling depicted Avalyn's daily struggle with her asthma, how it affected her friendships, and how Avalyn found the strength to stand up to the bullies and speak up about Adam being sexually abused by his uncle. The use of the sort of magical realism element let readers understand the horrors Adam was experiencing without delving into any explicit details.
Solid story about standing up for yourself and others, good for tweens who can handle more serious topics.
Solid story about standing up for yourself and others, good for tweens who can handle more serious topics.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2024
The last 100 pages are what made me bump this up to 4 stars. I really struggled to get through the first 150 pages. And for a young adult reader that can mean immediate abandonment. However, the message of this book worth the time. Bowling’s writing in the last 100 pages is poetic and inspiring. Again, Bowling creates characters that are navigating life and coming to terms with a world that is not perfect. Instead of these characters losing hope or allowing the status quo, they begin to learn how to use their voice and stand up for what is right even if they don’t solve every problem.
July 24, 2024
I read this book for the Charlie May Simon Award Committee. This book was a somewhat late add to the master list, but oh my goodness...I'm so glad it got added! I loved every minute of this book. This book is a perfect example of how bullying can make someone feel. There are so many different examples of bullying depicted in this book. It also covers abuse in such a gentle way that makes every reader understand how important it is that they speak up if they know something bad is going on with someone they know. I highly recommend this book! It's getting a big YES vote from me!!!
February 25, 2024
Avalyn’s breathing problems are getting worse and worse as the Arizona dust storms begin to increase at an alarming and unexpected rate. When Avalyn begins to suspect that they are due to the new boy in town, Adam, she just can’t stop thinking about it. The Meanie Butt Band is kicking their bullying into high gear at the same time, and Avalyn decides she can no longer stay silent to their harassment. What will it take for her to stand up for herself and those she loves against the popular kids? And what is happening with Adam to make him so angry all the time? Unforgettable story!
March 27, 2024
I was intrigued, I like Dusti's other books, so I thought I'd give it a try... I read it in one night. The further I read, the more page-turning it became. I highly recommend this book for any school library, for Gr. 4+.
The things that stood out for me are the characters, who each feel real and well-developed in their own right. Avalyn's voice especially is so rich in reflection and personality that I completely empathize with her.
The story itself is a wonderful and seamless blend of realism, mystery, and (dare I say) fantasy? I LOVE a good story in which the author manages to make abilities credible, and this is one of them.
The themes of bullying and abuse are so important and I deeply appreciate and am impressed by how the author weaves them into the story in a kid-accessible way. I also appreciate the fact that the adults are present and dependable, vs. absent and useless as is the case in some books.
Overall, I was left with a feeling I like to describe as the "oh wow" factor, and this is one of my favorite reads this year.
The things that stood out for me are the characters, who each feel real and well-developed in their own right. Avalyn's voice especially is so rich in reflection and personality that I completely empathize with her.
The story itself is a wonderful and seamless blend of realism, mystery, and (dare I say) fantasy? I LOVE a good story in which the author manages to make abilities credible, and this is one of them.
The themes of bullying and abuse are so important and I deeply appreciate and am impressed by how the author weaves them into the story in a kid-accessible way. I also appreciate the fact that the adults are present and dependable, vs. absent and useless as is the case in some books.
Overall, I was left with a feeling I like to describe as the "oh wow" factor, and this is one of my favorite reads this year.
October 28, 2025
Super sad story of a girl with asthma and a new boy whom she befriends and discovers connection with X-Men. She has a theory that she has powers and so does the new boy. The horrible dust storms, the bullying, the barriers to communicating what you really need and want, all add up to Avelyn saving Adam from a really bad situation. It was a really good young middle grade novel and I love the author's way of writing. Definitely recommend to 6-7th graders!!
October 17, 2023
I'll borrow words from the Booklist review: Bowling addresses "bullying, child abuse, and the power of both words and silence, but she also weaves in a thread of the supernatural that manifests in unexpected ways and casts empathy as a superpower." Great emotional book for middle schoolers and beyond.
September 16, 2023
This was a well done story that integrates difficult subject matter such as bullying and abuse very well for middle grade readers to understand. The main character Avalyn learns the importance of speaking up in important situations that need addressing. The dynamic between her and her friends was awesome. They all embraced their own uniqueness and developed a strong bond despite having very little in common. Avalyn and her parents had a cool relationship as well. As someone who dealt with asthma as a child, Avalyn and her experiences with that were well told. This book is simply F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C!!!
September 16, 2023
Dusti Bowling does it again. She addresses tough issues with reality abs compassion. She interweaves the reality of life, good and bad, into characters the reader can connect with — and the a storyline that has to be devoured.
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October 18, 2023I could not assign a rating to this book. The content was too much, too horrific, for me that I wanted to rate it low, but I couldn’t rate it low because what if this is the book that helps a child? Thus, I could not rate it.
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