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The Question of Miracles
Following the death of her best friend, Iris and her family move to Oregon for a fresh start in this middle-grade story of miracles, magic, rain, hope, and a hairless cat named Charles.
Sixth-grader Iris Abernathy hates life in Corvallis, Oregon, where her family just moved. It's always raining, and everything is so wet. Besides, nothing has felt right since Iris's best friend, Sarah, died.
When Iris meets Boris, an awkward mouth-breather with a know-it-all personality, she's not looking to make a new friend, but it beats eating lunch alone. Then she learns that Boris's very existence is a medical mystery, maybe even a miracle, and Iris starts to wonder why some people get miracles and others don't. And if one miracle is possible, can another one be too? Can she possibly communicate with Sarah again?
Sixth-grader Iris Abernathy hates life in Corvallis, Oregon, where her family just moved. It's always raining, and everything is so wet. Besides, nothing has felt right since Iris's best friend, Sarah, died.
When Iris meets Boris, an awkward mouth-breather with a know-it-all personality, she's not looking to make a new friend, but it beats eating lunch alone. Then she learns that Boris's very existence is a medical mystery, maybe even a miracle, and Iris starts to wonder why some people get miracles and others don't. And if one miracle is possible, can another one be too? Can she possibly communicate with Sarah again?
233 pages, Hardcover
First published February 3, 2014
11 people are currently reading
967 people want to read
About the author
Elana K. Arnold
42 books1,077 followersELANA K. ARNOLD writes books for and about children and teens. She holds a master’s degree in Creative Writing/Fiction from the University of California, Davis where she has taught Creative Writing and Adolescent Literature. Her most recent YA novel, DAMSEL, is a Printz Honor book, Her 2017 novel, WHAT GIRLS ARE MADE OF, was a finalist for the National Book Award, and her middle grade novel, A BOY CALLED BAT, is a Junior Library Guild Selection. A parent and educator living in Huntington Beach, California, Elana is a frequent speaker at schools, libraries, and writers’ conferences. Currently, Elana is the caretaker of seven pets, only three of which have fur. Sign up for her newsletter here: https://elanakarnold.us10.list-manage...
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 139 reviews
April 19, 2014
I agree wholeheartedly with the speculation that there are awards in this novel's future! While I feel it is unfair to compare one author to another, this story reminded me of all that was superb in RJ Palacio's WONDER. An extremely touching story of a young girl trying to come to terms with the sudden & tragic death of her best friend. Many life lessons here that connect us with our humanity.
March 2, 2017
Oh, this book. Let me tell you that as soon as I finished reading this in ebook format, I called my local Indie bookstore to buy a physical copy. The Question of Miracles is the exact kind of Middle Grade book I adore. The kind that isn't afraid to deal with tough issues. The kind that treats young readers as the strong, compassionate, curious human beings that they are. Best of all, this is a book that will resonate with all readers. No matter what your age group, you'll be touched. You may even cry.
Iris Abernathy's life has been forever altered. She's lost a best friend, been uprooted to a new state, and feels like nothing is fitting together the way it should. I must admit, Iris was a perfect main character to me. I truly believe there's nothing more difficult than channeling what a middle grader would do, and say, accurately. Iris felt real. I felt her frustration, I understood her sadness, and I loved her little quirks. As the story progressed, and she blossomed, I couldn't look away. This book came alive because Iris was alive.
Now add in a beautifully bittersweet story line, and there was no turning back for this reader. I've said it before, and I'll say it as many times as it takes, young readers deserve books like these. They need books that deal with tough concepts. Concepts like the death of a best friend. Elana K. Arnold's expert handling of this subject was impressive. I felt myself looking through the eyes of Iris. Stumbled along as she kept trying to deal with the loss of someone who was such a large part of her life and, worst of all, so close in age to her. Everything about this story pulled at my emotions in all the right places, but what I appreciated most of all was that it was so honest. Truly, wonderfully, honest.
I wish I could say more. If you'd allow me, I'd gush over how perfectly the idea of miracles are woven into this story. I'd praise Boris as a character, and how he was the perfect match for Iris. I'd smile proudly and admit that I adored the fact that the card game of Magic makes such a big debut in this book. Truthfully, you wouldn't be able to shut me up. So, instead, I'll just tell you that you definitely need to read this book. The Question of Miracles is absolutely gorgeous, and it deserves a place on your reading list.
Iris Abernathy's life has been forever altered. She's lost a best friend, been uprooted to a new state, and feels like nothing is fitting together the way it should. I must admit, Iris was a perfect main character to me. I truly believe there's nothing more difficult than channeling what a middle grader would do, and say, accurately. Iris felt real. I felt her frustration, I understood her sadness, and I loved her little quirks. As the story progressed, and she blossomed, I couldn't look away. This book came alive because Iris was alive.
Now add in a beautifully bittersweet story line, and there was no turning back for this reader. I've said it before, and I'll say it as many times as it takes, young readers deserve books like these. They need books that deal with tough concepts. Concepts like the death of a best friend. Elana K. Arnold's expert handling of this subject was impressive. I felt myself looking through the eyes of Iris. Stumbled along as she kept trying to deal with the loss of someone who was such a large part of her life and, worst of all, so close in age to her. Everything about this story pulled at my emotions in all the right places, but what I appreciated most of all was that it was so honest. Truly, wonderfully, honest.
I wish I could say more. If you'd allow me, I'd gush over how perfectly the idea of miracles are woven into this story. I'd praise Boris as a character, and how he was the perfect match for Iris. I'd smile proudly and admit that I adored the fact that the card game of Magic makes such a big debut in this book. Truthfully, you wouldn't be able to shut me up. So, instead, I'll just tell you that you definitely need to read this book. The Question of Miracles is absolutely gorgeous, and it deserves a place on your reading list.
March 31, 2015
Very disappointed in this story. Totally character driven, and nothing really happens of import. While Iris grieves the loss of her best friend, she's got to figure out the unanswerable questions: why bad things happens to good people, and why some people experience miracles while others do not.
There were many moments when Arnold could have honed in on this, leading Iris to some sort of epiphany, but she did not. The whole Vatican/saint storyline around Boris went absolutely nowhere; she had a golden opportunity for one of the investigators to explain something in a wise way, and instead she lazily defaults to "faith." As if a 6th grader could understand that at all. I loved Boris, and felt he should have been Iris' teacher in a more dramatic way.
Even Iris' sessions with the therapist were kind of bland, and the whole ghost thing just faded into oblivion.
The only lesson I liked was Iris' father's suggestion to live IN the rain, not against it. There should have been more of THAT.
The end felt like Arnold had to just state the obvious: miracles are all around us, instead of showing us something miraculous.
Meh. Double meh.
There were many moments when Arnold could have honed in on this, leading Iris to some sort of epiphany, but she did not. The whole Vatican/saint storyline around Boris went absolutely nowhere; she had a golden opportunity for one of the investigators to explain something in a wise way, and instead she lazily defaults to "faith." As if a 6th grader could understand that at all. I loved Boris, and felt he should have been Iris' teacher in a more dramatic way.
Even Iris' sessions with the therapist were kind of bland, and the whole ghost thing just faded into oblivion.
The only lesson I liked was Iris' father's suggestion to live IN the rain, not against it. There should have been more of THAT.
The end felt like Arnold had to just state the obvious: miracles are all around us, instead of showing us something miraculous.
Meh. Double meh.
June 7, 2016
This book has the potential to be the next Newbery contender!! I *loved* it in the same way that I loved CLEMENTINE (Sara Pennypacker) when i first read it. In fact, this book strikes me as the next step up after kids finish the Clementine series.
The voice is authentic, the grief is subtle and deeply felt. The feeling of being unmoored after a great change like a move or loss echoes throughout, but never does the book feel heavy. A solid parent presence with perfect Oregon-style quirkiness keeps all light and makes sure we all feel everything will be okay. LOVE IT!
Rereading May 2015: I realize when reading this out loud that the writing is very bogged down with unnecessary transition moments. Like, the author feels the need to write in moments where the main character travels from school to home even if nothing else happens in that scene. It really bogs down the read aloud experience!
The voice is authentic, the grief is subtle and deeply felt. The feeling of being unmoored after a great change like a move or loss echoes throughout, but never does the book feel heavy. A solid parent presence with perfect Oregon-style quirkiness keeps all light and makes sure we all feel everything will be okay. LOVE IT!
Rereading May 2015: I realize when reading this out loud that the writing is very bogged down with unnecessary transition moments. Like, the author feels the need to write in moments where the main character travels from school to home even if nothing else happens in that scene. It really bogs down the read aloud experience!
March 3, 2015
I don't wanna talk about it.
November 15, 2018
*4.5 stars*
Iris is miserable. She and her parents moved from sunny California to Oregon, where it rains every day. She misses her old hometown, her old house, and most importantly, her best friend, Sarah. But after Sarah died in a tragic accident, her parents decide that it's best for them all to have "a fresh start."
I've read a lot of books where people move away after traumatic incidents, but most of them center around the folks left behind to deal with the aftermath. So it was a nice change to read about Iris and how rocky "fresh starts" can actually be. Iris is instantly likable, and so are her parents. And can I just say that it's rare for a middle grade book to have likable, well-adjusted parents!!
Anyway, Iris is befriended by a strange boy, Boris. Boris' mother claims that his birth was a miracle, and there are even Catholic priests and a committee researching these claims. Iris starts to wonder: if miracles are real, why do they happen to some people, and not others? Why did Sarah have to die?
I really enjoyed this book. There are no easy answers when it comes to death and grieving, and most of the people Iris encounters in her philosophical journey refuse to give her a cliched solution or empty comfort. But while this sounds like a bleak novel, it's actually not. there are sparks of hope everywhere in Iris' new life: from her father's budding vegetable garden, to a new pizza place that reminds Iris of "Thanksgiving dinner."
Iris is miserable. She and her parents moved from sunny California to Oregon, where it rains every day. She misses her old hometown, her old house, and most importantly, her best friend, Sarah. But after Sarah died in a tragic accident, her parents decide that it's best for them all to have "a fresh start."
I've read a lot of books where people move away after traumatic incidents, but most of them center around the folks left behind to deal with the aftermath. So it was a nice change to read about Iris and how rocky "fresh starts" can actually be. Iris is instantly likable, and so are her parents. And can I just say that it's rare for a middle grade book to have likable, well-adjusted parents!!
Anyway, Iris is befriended by a strange boy, Boris. Boris' mother claims that his birth was a miracle, and there are even Catholic priests and a committee researching these claims. Iris starts to wonder: if miracles are real, why do they happen to some people, and not others? Why did Sarah have to die?
I really enjoyed this book. There are no easy answers when it comes to death and grieving, and most of the people Iris encounters in her philosophical journey refuse to give her a cliched solution or empty comfort. But while this sounds like a bleak novel, it's actually not. there are sparks of hope everywhere in Iris' new life: from her father's budding vegetable garden, to a new pizza place that reminds Iris of "Thanksgiving dinner."
November 12, 2015
I'm so over the dead friends this year. All the books are about this.
January 29, 2015
I picked up my ARC at the NCTE conference. My friend and I asked the publicist for Houghton Mifflin Harcourt what book on her list she loved, and she put this in my hands, saying something like “this is really special.”
And it was! So it asks some really really big questions. Why do some people get miracles and some people suffer tragedies? How do we fill a hole that is left behind when we lose someone we love? How do we start over?
So deep, right? But, it’s also just a great story. I loved inhabiting Iris’s world. Her parents were so wonderful and interesting. I warmed to her friend Boris, slowly, just like Iris did. The setting was so vivid in all the moodiness of endless rain and the possibilities that her new homestead offer.
I also really related to the story on a personal level because I had a best friend die when I was young. And I remember asking those big questions and wondering where my friend was now. It got those things spot on.
It’s quiet in the best way possible. There’s room to think about the big things and reading it was a bit like a meditation. Only with fun dialogue and psychics.
The best part though, is that you could read everything on a different level. So I can totally see this book being taught and discussed in a classroom or a book club.
I can’t recommend this book enough. It left me with such a feeling of hope.
And it was! So it asks some really really big questions. Why do some people get miracles and some people suffer tragedies? How do we fill a hole that is left behind when we lose someone we love? How do we start over?
So deep, right? But, it’s also just a great story. I loved inhabiting Iris’s world. Her parents were so wonderful and interesting. I warmed to her friend Boris, slowly, just like Iris did. The setting was so vivid in all the moodiness of endless rain and the possibilities that her new homestead offer.
I also really related to the story on a personal level because I had a best friend die when I was young. And I remember asking those big questions and wondering where my friend was now. It got those things spot on.
It’s quiet in the best way possible. There’s room to think about the big things and reading it was a bit like a meditation. Only with fun dialogue and psychics.
The best part though, is that you could read everything on a different level. So I can totally see this book being taught and discussed in a classroom or a book club.
I can’t recommend this book enough. It left me with such a feeling of hope.
January 27, 2015
Living in a new town (Corvallis, Oregon) is hard for Iris because it means leaving behind the places she loved to visit with her friend Sarah, who recently died. When a new friend with a miraculous story enters her life, Iris hopes for her own miracle. Could she somehow speak to Sarah again?
At times an intense read, but an honest and literary exploration of a young girl's grief and adjustment to life's changes.
At times an intense read, but an honest and literary exploration of a young girl's grief and adjustment to life's changes.
February 28, 2015
The Question of Miracles is a wonderfully written book by Elana K. Arnold. A part of my heart went out to Iris. The relationship between Iris and Boris reminded me of one of my best friends as a child. A lovely middle grade novel. I see a Newbery in this books future!
April 21, 2016
I feel completely heartless for giving this only two stars because it's clearly meant to be a heartwarming, friendship / family / moving on / loss / closure story and I just.. nope, no, nuh-uh.
The Question of Miracles is about Iris, whose best friend Sarah just died in a tragic accident, so the family's picking up and moving away from California. However, Iris is sure that Sarah's still with them, somehow, and becomes even more convinced when she learns that her new and only friend Boris is a medical miracle. As in, he should be dead, but he's not. Together they try to find a way to make a miracle happen for Iris by trying to talk to Sarah again. The story's basically centered around Iris adjusting to a new home, the friendship between her and Boris, and some memories to show us what Sarah was like.
I hate to say it but I could not like Iris. I know she's only eleven but she complained for like, 90% of the book. She was so judgmental of every single person around her and when they tried to be nice, she would say something snappy back and regret it afterwards. Why, Iris?! Just be nice back to them! I was happy to see her character growth, from a stubborn and petulant, grieving girl to her old, happy self. But seriously, when the book first started I was really surprised by the amount of angst in the first chapter - the whole time I was thinking: isn't this a middle grade novel?
Now, don't get me wrong, I know she's having a hard time coping with Sarah's loss. However, a lot of the times she was sassy weren't even related to Sarah. I felt like Iris' thoughts were more focused on herself (why did you leave me, why don't I get a miracle, why do I have to move to rainy Oregon, do I really have to play Magic ughhghh etc.) than missing Sarah (actual sad thoughts and memories with deceased friend).
Not to mention, Iris' friendship with Boris is basically forced. First, it's "I'd rather not sit alone at lunch so I'm stuck with you." Then, its "you're a miracle maybe I should ask you for help for my miracle." At the end, she finally seems to have more friendship chemistry with him.
Boris was an alright character and an alright friend, but I wish he was more flawed. He's this reliable, helpful, smart, energetic friend who owns up to his mistakes quickly and deals with Iris' attitude. Iris describes him as a know-it-all, which I didn't even think was true most of the time. I kept hoping (sorry, I'm a horrible human) that Boris and Iris would have a huge fight, or Boris would find a new friend and ditch Iris but come back, or something. Otherwise, there's not much room for his character to develop.
Overall I'd say the writing was lovely up until the end. The end felt so rushed, and the ending didn't leave me feeling anything but frustration.
I know this is just my personal opinion, and I did enjoy some aspects of the story (the different beliefs Iris came across in her search, for one) and I know that a younger me probably would have gobbled this story up. I know lots of younger students and adults will love this novel, since it's charming and has a cute little story (bonus points for an adorable cover + quaint title). However, I just couldn't get into it. Perhaps I'd enjoy Elana K. Arnold's YA more? *shrugs*
The Question of Miracles is about Iris, whose best friend Sarah just died in a tragic accident, so the family's picking up and moving away from California. However, Iris is sure that Sarah's still with them, somehow, and becomes even more convinced when she learns that her new and only friend Boris is a medical miracle. As in, he should be dead, but he's not. Together they try to find a way to make a miracle happen for Iris by trying to talk to Sarah again. The story's basically centered around Iris adjusting to a new home, the friendship between her and Boris, and some memories to show us what Sarah was like.
I hate to say it but I could not like Iris. I know she's only eleven but she complained for like, 90% of the book. She was so judgmental of every single person around her and when they tried to be nice, she would say something snappy back and regret it afterwards. Why, Iris?! Just be nice back to them! I was happy to see her character growth, from a stubborn and petulant, grieving girl to her old, happy self. But seriously, when the book first started I was really surprised by the amount of angst in the first chapter - the whole time I was thinking: isn't this a middle grade novel?
Iris headed there, ignoring the questioning glances on the other kids' faces. Ignoring the occasional smile, too. Ignoring everything.Woahhh there, Iris, you're too young to be this teenagery.
Now, don't get me wrong, I know she's having a hard time coping with Sarah's loss. However, a lot of the times she was sassy weren't even related to Sarah. I felt like Iris' thoughts were more focused on herself (why did you leave me, why don't I get a miracle, why do I have to move to rainy Oregon, do I really have to play Magic ughhghh etc.) than missing Sarah (actual sad thoughts and memories with deceased friend).
Not to mention, Iris' friendship with Boris is basically forced. First, it's "I'd rather not sit alone at lunch so I'm stuck with you." Then, its "you're a miracle maybe I should ask you for help for my miracle." At the end, she finally seems to have more friendship chemistry with him.
Boris was an alright character and an alright friend, but I wish he was more flawed. He's this reliable, helpful, smart, energetic friend who owns up to his mistakes quickly and deals with Iris' attitude. Iris describes him as a know-it-all, which I didn't even think was true most of the time. I kept hoping (sorry, I'm a horrible human) that Boris and Iris would have a huge fight, or Boris would find a new friend and ditch Iris but come back, or something. Otherwise, there's not much room for his character to develop.
Overall I'd say the writing was lovely up until the end. The end felt so rushed, and the ending didn't leave me feeling anything but frustration.
Clean, fresh rain showered down on them.Really?!? The pages before, where Iris finally does some self reflection, and she's talking about the eggs hatching / not hatching and their veggies are growing.. those were great. Then, insert a cheesy-supposed-to-be-dramatic-and-inspiring-sounding-sentence to ruin all that was finally built up before. Sigh.
There was a miracle, too, in that.
I know this is just my personal opinion, and I did enjoy some aspects of the story (the different beliefs Iris came across in her search, for one) and I know that a younger me probably would have gobbled this story up. I know lots of younger students and adults will love this novel, since it's charming and has a cute little story (bonus points for an adorable cover + quaint title). However, I just couldn't get into it. Perhaps I'd enjoy Elana K. Arnold's YA more? *shrugs*
March 5, 2015
4.5 stars
Read more of my reviews at My Full Bookshelf
Wow. This may have been one of the best middle grade books I have read in the past couple of months. So many MG books tend to get 'watered down', but this one didn't, while still being something that kids could like...and teens...and adults.
I've not come across a heroine like Iris in quite a long time. She is young, a bit naive, but she's also very wise. Her grief for her friend Sarah, who she basically saw die, doesn't feel like a cheap ploy for tears...it feels realistic and raw.
I think that is what I loved about this book; despite being undeniably sad and raw, The Question of Miracles never felt overly angsty. So many books these days paint grief as being angry and lost and confused and generally pissed off at anyone and everyone--and it can be, but this isn't how it is for everyone. This book didn't take that route, and I applaud the author for doing that.
Still, you just can't help but get a lump in your throat as Iris tries to communicate with her friend Sarah. She's convinced herself that Sarah is a ghost; that she didn't really die. She tries a myriad of ways to contact her friend, but nothing works. It's heartbreaking.
Boris...oh Boris. What a loveable little dork that kid was. He's kind, a bit funny (though it isn't always intentional) and he's a total geek when it comes to Magic. I loved him.
Boris' backstory is really interesting, and it brings up the question; do miracles exist? Why do only some people get miracles? This book asks some really philosophical questions, and it does it in a tasteful way.
The writing in this book was so perfect. So often, middle grade books seem overly simplistic in their tone and its one of my pet peeves. You can make writing in kid's book easy to understand without it being babyish; this book is a prime example of that. It does it so well, and I'm really impressed.
Another little personal perk for me...Iris is a cat person, and her cat's a lil cutie. (I love cats. Dogs too, but cats don't get as much positive representation, so I'm always happy when kitties are mentioned in books. Don't judge me.)
If you like middle grade books that aren't afraid to get deep and are incredibly well written, (and who wouldn't want that?) this is a book worth reading. I am getting teary eyed just writing this review, it was that good. Don't believe me? Try it for yourself.
Read more of my reviews at My Full Bookshelf
Wow. This may have been one of the best middle grade books I have read in the past couple of months. So many MG books tend to get 'watered down', but this one didn't, while still being something that kids could like...and teens...and adults.
I've not come across a heroine like Iris in quite a long time. She is young, a bit naive, but she's also very wise. Her grief for her friend Sarah, who she basically saw die, doesn't feel like a cheap ploy for tears...it feels realistic and raw.
I think that is what I loved about this book; despite being undeniably sad and raw, The Question of Miracles never felt overly angsty. So many books these days paint grief as being angry and lost and confused and generally pissed off at anyone and everyone--and it can be, but this isn't how it is for everyone. This book didn't take that route, and I applaud the author for doing that.
Still, you just can't help but get a lump in your throat as Iris tries to communicate with her friend Sarah. She's convinced herself that Sarah is a ghost; that she didn't really die. She tries a myriad of ways to contact her friend, but nothing works. It's heartbreaking.
Boris...oh Boris. What a loveable little dork that kid was. He's kind, a bit funny (though it isn't always intentional) and he's a total geek when it comes to Magic. I loved him.
Boris' backstory is really interesting, and it brings up the question; do miracles exist? Why do only some people get miracles? This book asks some really philosophical questions, and it does it in a tasteful way.
The writing in this book was so perfect. So often, middle grade books seem overly simplistic in their tone and its one of my pet peeves. You can make writing in kid's book easy to understand without it being babyish; this book is a prime example of that. It does it so well, and I'm really impressed.
Another little personal perk for me...Iris is a cat person, and her cat's a lil cutie. (I love cats. Dogs too, but cats don't get as much positive representation, so I'm always happy when kitties are mentioned in books. Don't judge me.)
If you like middle grade books that aren't afraid to get deep and are incredibly well written, (and who wouldn't want that?) this is a book worth reading. I am getting teary eyed just writing this review, it was that good. Don't believe me? Try it for yourself.
April 6, 2015
Iris and her family have just moved to Corvallis, Oregon where Iris longs for sunshine and warm weather but is constantly faced with falling rain. Iris is struggling with the death of her best friend and has very little interest in making new friends or exploring her new town. Iris meets Boris and the two slowly become friends despite the fact that Boris is a messy eater, breaths through his mouth all the time, and wants Iris to play Magic all the time. But Boris is also fascinating to Iris because his birth could have been a real miracle that the Vatican is investigating. Iris wants to know how some people get miracles and others don’t. And what’s with the haunting presence she feels in the cupboard under the stairs where her best friend’s tennis racket rests? Is it possible that there is another miracle about to happen and Iris will be able to contact her friend?
Arnold does a simply beautiful job of writing this novel. Her crafting of Iris’ world and family is done with a gentleness and detail that is inspired. And through it all, readers will feel the chill of the constantly falling rain, the loneliness of the tennis racket under the stairs, and the sorrow that leads Iris to fall asleep early often. Arnold also shows in imagery over and over again the impermanence of things. From snow angels that are stepped on to eggs that don’t hatch, she crafts moments of fragility that show the uncertainty of life.
At the same time, she uses intense moments of comfort and being together with others that are warming and stand brightly against the cold wet weather that Iris finds herself trapped in. Those moments show such hope for Iris in a way that is tangible and realistic. Arnold also allows readers to see Oregon through Iris’ eyes for the most part. While there are these moments of light and warmth, snacks and hot chocolate, readers will start to see the beauty of Oregon and the wonder of the rain only when Iris herself starts to lift out of grief. The entire process is done over time and very realistically.
Beautiful writing that is poetic and filled with imagery yet easy to read and understand, this book will speak to fans of Kevin Henkes. Appropriate for ages 9-12
Arnold does a simply beautiful job of writing this novel. Her crafting of Iris’ world and family is done with a gentleness and detail that is inspired. And through it all, readers will feel the chill of the constantly falling rain, the loneliness of the tennis racket under the stairs, and the sorrow that leads Iris to fall asleep early often. Arnold also shows in imagery over and over again the impermanence of things. From snow angels that are stepped on to eggs that don’t hatch, she crafts moments of fragility that show the uncertainty of life.
At the same time, she uses intense moments of comfort and being together with others that are warming and stand brightly against the cold wet weather that Iris finds herself trapped in. Those moments show such hope for Iris in a way that is tangible and realistic. Arnold also allows readers to see Oregon through Iris’ eyes for the most part. While there are these moments of light and warmth, snacks and hot chocolate, readers will start to see the beauty of Oregon and the wonder of the rain only when Iris herself starts to lift out of grief. The entire process is done over time and very realistically.
Beautiful writing that is poetic and filled with imagery yet easy to read and understand, this book will speak to fans of Kevin Henkes. Appropriate for ages 9-12
February 8, 2015
When you're eleven, losing your best friend in a tragic accident is a pretty devastating experience. Add to that being uprooted from your home on the California coast and moving to perpetually rainy Corvallis, Oregon and you have the potential for a full bore meltdown. This is what Iris is dealing with as the story begins. In addition to these changes, she has to adjust from living in a house with others close by to an old farmhouse with a long driveway and riding on a school bus instead of walking to school or having one of her parents transport her. Then, there's the matter of not knowing a single kid at the new school. The move has been easy for Mom, who got a new job as a genetic researcher, while her stay-at-home dad is excited about starting a garden and raising most of their food. Iris has nothing like these to look forward to, just the hurting, angry ache left by Sarah's death.
On her first day at school, she meets Boris who is friendly, but socially awkward and kind of a know it all. Still, as time goes on, he grows on her and becomes her only real friend. Iris wonders whether he realizes how he's perceived by the other kids, but isn't ready to go there with him.
Letting go of her grief is the hardest thing imaginable for Iris. She's sure that part of Sarah lives in their new house, but no matter how hard she tries, she can't 'see' her. Boris is pretty sympathetic and understanding, partly because of what happened to him before he was born. As Iris gets to know his family, his mother calls him her miracle baby and encourages Iris to have Boris tell her the whole story.
His miracle, coupled with her gradual acceptance about Sarah's death, thanks in part to a very understanding therapist, and her awareness that they both need to expand their friendship circle, bring the story to a positive and satisfying conclusion. This is a great book about pre-teen friendship and how to get through the grieving process. It's a great one for both school and public libraries to add.
On her first day at school, she meets Boris who is friendly, but socially awkward and kind of a know it all. Still, as time goes on, he grows on her and becomes her only real friend. Iris wonders whether he realizes how he's perceived by the other kids, but isn't ready to go there with him.
Letting go of her grief is the hardest thing imaginable for Iris. She's sure that part of Sarah lives in their new house, but no matter how hard she tries, she can't 'see' her. Boris is pretty sympathetic and understanding, partly because of what happened to him before he was born. As Iris gets to know his family, his mother calls him her miracle baby and encourages Iris to have Boris tell her the whole story.
His miracle, coupled with her gradual acceptance about Sarah's death, thanks in part to a very understanding therapist, and her awareness that they both need to expand their friendship circle, bring the story to a positive and satisfying conclusion. This is a great book about pre-teen friendship and how to get through the grieving process. It's a great one for both school and public libraries to add.
December 31, 2014
I absolutely adored this MG novel. Grieving is hard for everyone, of course, but I feel like it's probably worse when you're young and when you lose your best friend. I felt so horrible for Iris, because you know probably nobody her age has any sort of experience with losing anyone. (And even if they do, it's probably a grandparent, not someone their own age.)
I loved the questions this book raises (are miracles possible? If they are, who does God give miracles to some but not to others? Are there ghosts? Can you talk to the dead?) and everything was handled in a respectful and authentic manner. I never thought that Iris was behaving unrealistically. She seemed like any sixth grader in the world, even though she was obviously dealing with things most sixth graders wouldn't ever have to deal with.
I need to read her earlier books, and hope to make my way to them at some point this year.
Highly recommended.
I loved the questions this book raises (are miracles possible? If they are, who does God give miracles to some but not to others? Are there ghosts? Can you talk to the dead?) and everything was handled in a respectful and authentic manner. I never thought that Iris was behaving unrealistically. She seemed like any sixth grader in the world, even though she was obviously dealing with things most sixth graders wouldn't ever have to deal with.
I need to read her earlier books, and hope to make my way to them at some point this year.
Highly recommended.
July 27, 2015
A rainy, thoughtful, sad book set in a rainy Oregon. Iris moves from sunny CA when her best friend dies suddenly. Characters in this book are so alive they jump off the page. They are all big-hearted and generous and very kind. As a Christian, the author seems to poo-poo Christianity, and this was off-putting. But I gained insight into the profound sadness of those who are unable to have faith and hope in an eternal view. Oregon seems the perfect setting. The book verges on making the joyful jump to faith, hope and love that last forever but stays firmly grounded in the temporal. Still the characters kept the pages turning.
March 3, 2015
After her best friend dies, Iris and her family move to Corvallis, Oregon, where it's always raining and she's always angry. She's determined not to make new friends, but when Boris starts hanging around they find a common ground and Iris starts to come out of her grief and learn that the world is full of possibility, even after something horrible happens. Arnold has delivered a beautifully written story here that respects the complex emotions of readers this age, with whom it will surely resonate. http://scribbleandhum.blogspot.com/20...
August 12, 2015
Arnold employs slow and descriptive yet beautiful prose in her debut for the middle grade audience. Iris is grappling with a serious tragedy, so this book may be useful as bibliotherapy for children who have lost a family member or friend. Many readers will simply enjoy the well-written, realistic story. This title is not for those who like action-packed narratives, but the considerations of friendship, family and the bigger questions of life contained within are worth digging into for introspective readers in grades 4-6.
March 19, 2015
Disclosure: I won a copy of this book as part of a Goodreads First Reads Giveaway.
This book left me with such a good feeling when I finished it. I agree this could be a Newberry contender. I love a book that so many ages can appreciate. It’s a must-read!!!!!!!
This book left me with such a good feeling when I finished it. I agree this could be a Newberry contender. I love a book that so many ages can appreciate. It’s a must-read!!!!!!!
June 16, 2016
Really good book. Out of all the books I've read recently, I think this one deals with death and loss in the nicest and most accurate way. My favourite part of this book is her conversation with the therapist, when she talks about tennis and how even if you have nothing, you still have love.
March 27, 2014
Loved this. Review to come soon.
May 13, 2015
Read Jordan's 4 star review here:
http://readforyourfuture.blogspot.com...
http://readforyourfuture.blogspot.com...
June 11, 2015
It was awesome. Not exactly what you expect to happen at the end.
December 5, 2020
Iris isn't happy about her family's abrupt move to the humid and chilly northwest. She misses the California sunshine. She misses her best friend. She isn't happy about her dad's odd new self-sufficiency projects. (Chickens as pets?! I can totally relate... :) She isn't happy about her parents' repeated and awkward inquiries about how she is feeling. (Still not good. WHY are we in Oregon again?) She has nothing to settle on and feel grounded about. Will she get any answers at all about why Sarah's life ended and hers did not?
I think this is a good book for teens or tweens, a really good book for them. As an adult, it was fine, but I didn't love it. I did feel for Iris, but I was also irritated by how uppity she was inside towards the actual only person at the new school who has chosen to befriend and stick with her. I think in the end I wasn't quite satisfied with her personal journey that the author was trying to deliver. What I did like was the importance of the content in this book, and the questions that it raises. Really hard questions that I'm not sure anyone has all of the answers to, but that I think the youth of this generation are asking and exploring. This book is a great place to start some important conversations.... about death, about timing, and about the why and when of miracles.
I may not have loved the book, but I liked what it made me think about.... if that makes any sense at all! :)
"We don't get to choose how or when our friends leave us. We don't even get to choose whether they leave us. But we do get some say over the stories we remember."
I think this is a good book for teens or tweens, a really good book for them. As an adult, it was fine, but I didn't love it. I did feel for Iris, but I was also irritated by how uppity she was inside towards the actual only person at the new school who has chosen to befriend and stick with her. I think in the end I wasn't quite satisfied with her personal journey that the author was trying to deliver. What I did like was the importance of the content in this book, and the questions that it raises. Really hard questions that I'm not sure anyone has all of the answers to, but that I think the youth of this generation are asking and exploring. This book is a great place to start some important conversations.... about death, about timing, and about the why and when of miracles.
I may not have loved the book, but I liked what it made me think about.... if that makes any sense at all! :)
"We don't get to choose how or when our friends leave us. We don't even get to choose whether they leave us. But we do get some say over the stories we remember."
August 2, 2017
The Question of Miracles is about a little girl named Iris Abernathy who moved to Corvallis, Oregon. Iris used to live in Seal Beach, California.
When Iris lived in Seal Beach she had a best friend named Sarah. Iris and her family loved Sarah as if they were related. Of course they don’t share the same blood but they adored her. Iris and her parents would take her to play tennis and a lot of other things too. One day Iris and Sarah were waiting to be picked up after school when something terribly tragic happened to Sarah! Iris’s life changed forever that day and she was never the same. After the tragedy, Iris and her family moved to Oregon. At Iris’s new school she met a kid named Boris. He was a nice kid that Iris disliked at first. When she learned about his birth, that is when she started wondering about miracles. “Why do miracles happen? Why do they happen only to certain people or things?” “Why Boris, why me, and why not Sarah?” Iris wonders all these things.
The Question of Miracles is an amazing book! The way the author, Elana K. Arnold tells it makes it an exciting adventure in your head!
The book starts off a little slow but please give it a chance. It will soon become so fascinating that you won’t be able to put it down. There is an important message in this book about appreciating and respecting the little things in life that you have around you. I really enjoyed reading this book and I am sure you will too
When Iris lived in Seal Beach she had a best friend named Sarah. Iris and her family loved Sarah as if they were related. Of course they don’t share the same blood but they adored her. Iris and her parents would take her to play tennis and a lot of other things too. One day Iris and Sarah were waiting to be picked up after school when something terribly tragic happened to Sarah! Iris’s life changed forever that day and she was never the same. After the tragedy, Iris and her family moved to Oregon. At Iris’s new school she met a kid named Boris. He was a nice kid that Iris disliked at first. When she learned about his birth, that is when she started wondering about miracles. “Why do miracles happen? Why do they happen only to certain people or things?” “Why Boris, why me, and why not Sarah?” Iris wonders all these things.
The Question of Miracles is an amazing book! The way the author, Elana K. Arnold tells it makes it an exciting adventure in your head!
The book starts off a little slow but please give it a chance. It will soon become so fascinating that you won’t be able to put it down. There is an important message in this book about appreciating and respecting the little things in life that you have around you. I really enjoyed reading this book and I am sure you will too
November 19, 2021
UGH. Oregon. Does it ever stop raining? Why did Iris's parents have to leave beautiful Seal Beach, CA for dreary Oregon? Not only does Iris have to deal with the rain (and more rain), she has to deal with the death of her BFF, Sarah. No one can compare to Sarah -- and the closeness they had -- and Iris wonders if Sarah's spirit is still around. After all, her friend Boris had a miracle... they didn't think he would survive his birth, and he did.
Will Iris ever like Oregon? Do miracles happen? And will it ever stop raining?
This was a cute book I read aloud to my daughter. I think it was great that Iris became friends with Boris even though he sounded well, like a total nerd that wasn't exactly in the popular crowd at school. The book showed how you have to think for yourself and not go with the crowd. And how you can have a ton of fun even with people other kids don't consider cool. Lots of lessons hidden somewhere in the book.
#rain in oregon
#bus rides with Boris
#praying nuns
#friend literally in the closet?
#farm fun
Will Iris ever like Oregon? Do miracles happen? And will it ever stop raining?
This was a cute book I read aloud to my daughter. I think it was great that Iris became friends with Boris even though he sounded well, like a total nerd that wasn't exactly in the popular crowd at school. The book showed how you have to think for yourself and not go with the crowd. And how you can have a ton of fun even with people other kids don't consider cool. Lots of lessons hidden somewhere in the book.
#rain in oregon
#bus rides with Boris
#praying nuns
#friend literally in the closet?
#farm fun
February 14, 2025
One of my favorite books. This book portray grief very beautifully. I really love how the main character develops yet in a realistic way, not in a 'in the power of friendship' way. And I love how when the main character first made friends, she was distant, which is definitely a side-effect from the trauma of losing her friend. Especially since she saw her best friend being hit by a car right in-front of her. And I like how the characters alongside her, her dad, mom, plays a huge part of her healing process and that her parents also experience grief alongside her too. Her friend, Boris, definitely plays a huge role too, realistically being alongside her even when she pushed him away, I think he's just a chill teen guy. I just love how realistic this is and how heart-warming this whole book is.
April 17, 2023
I really like how Iris (mc) showed how the loss of her best friend affected her. The memories were described as very happy, and there were peices that indicated how she may have changed since. Keeping in mind that this is mainly a children's book, I think it demonstrates grief and loss quite well, so for kids who experience the same loss of someone close can relate.
I also enjoyed how the book goes on a more "spiritual" note.
Both Iris and Boris were very nice characters, who were easy to relate to in a lot of parts of the book.
This book really kept me intrigued, likely because the story was pretty appealing to me.
5/5 I would reccomend.
(Also I read this book a few years back, so I tried my best to pull out all the info that I can remember. I'll also re-read it soon)
I also enjoyed how the book goes on a more "spiritual" note.
Both Iris and Boris were very nice characters, who were easy to relate to in a lot of parts of the book.
This book really kept me intrigued, likely because the story was pretty appealing to me.
5/5 I would reccomend.
(Also I read this book a few years back, so I tried my best to pull out all the info that I can remember. I'll also re-read it soon)
March 8, 2021
I am a huge fan of Elana K. Arnold YA novels, but this one just didn't work for me. I feel like there were some missed opportunities to delve into questions about religion that could have more complex explorations than "faith" and "miracles all around us." I think I've also just read an influx of grief books lately, so I wasn't in the right head space for this one.
I did like the character Iris and thought she was a realistic tween, discarding information that she didn't like, and befriending Boris almost by accident because of the ease of it. There are other positives: Iris' dad does most of the housework while her mom is the breadwinner and a good therapist is shown to be helpful.
I did like the character Iris and thought she was a realistic tween, discarding information that she didn't like, and befriending Boris almost by accident because of the ease of it. There are other positives: Iris' dad does most of the housework while her mom is the breadwinner and a good therapist is shown to be helpful.
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