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What Stars Are Made Of
Twelve-year-old Libby Monroe is great at science, being optimistic, and talking to her famous, accomplished friends (okay, maybe that last one is only in her head). She’s not great at playing piano, sitting still, or figuring out how to say the right thing at the right time in real life. Libby was born with Turner Syndrome, and that makes some things hard. But she has lots of people who love her, and that makes her pretty lucky.
When her big sister Nonny tells her she’s pregnant, Libby is thrilled—but worried. Nonny and her husband are in a financial black hole, and Libby knows that babies aren’t always born healthy. So she strikes a deal with the universe: She’ll enter a contest with a project about Cecelia Payne, the first person to discover what stars are made of. If she wins the grand prize and gives all that money to Nonny’s family, then the baby will be perfect. Does she have what it takes to care for the sister that has always cared for her? And what will it take for the universe to notice?
When her big sister Nonny tells her she’s pregnant, Libby is thrilled—but worried. Nonny and her husband are in a financial black hole, and Libby knows that babies aren’t always born healthy. So she strikes a deal with the universe: She’ll enter a contest with a project about Cecelia Payne, the first person to discover what stars are made of. If she wins the grand prize and gives all that money to Nonny’s family, then the baby will be perfect. Does she have what it takes to care for the sister that has always cared for her? And what will it take for the universe to notice?
208 pages, Hardcover
First published March 31, 2020
55 people are currently reading
3677 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Allen
5 books177 followersSarah Allen is an award winning author whose books are filled with quirky, neurodiverse characters, STEAM elements, and a sense of finding Joy in the weirdest and most unlikely of places. Her books have been Jr. Library Guild selections, Whitney Award winners, A Mighty Girl Best Of pick, and state award winners. Sarah received her MFA in creative writing from BYU and regularly teaches at writing conferences and presents at schools across the country. She lives in Florida with her two fluffy black cats! Learn more at her website: https://www.sarahallenbooks.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
January 2, 2020
Hello friends, author here! Thank you so much for supporting this book. It's been such an incredible journey seeing this book come to life. Growing up, I never saw stories about girls like me. There are even a lot of people in the medical community who haven’t heard of Turner syndrome. I have been thrilled seeing books like WONDER, COUNTING BY 7’S, and RAIN, REIGN that highlight kids who are different in some unique ways. I hope my book can do that same thing for my readers. Thank you all so, so much for reading. YOU are what stars are made of!
March 16, 2021
Why aren’t more people talking about this book? 😍🤩
It was such a pleasant surprise! Even though I’m not much into middle grades, I loved this one so much! When you are in a mood for a book that can melt your heart, try this one…
You can find my full review on my blog…
💖💖💖
It was such a pleasant surprise! Even though I’m not much into middle grades, I loved this one so much! When you are in a mood for a book that can melt your heart, try this one…
You can find my full review on my blog…
💖💖💖
April 18, 2020
"I think if Cecilia were here today, she would say, I discovered what stars are made of. Are you ready to find out?"
When we heard about What Stars are Made of coming out, my family and I decided to read it together during lockdown. One of my family members has Turners Syndrome, and this is the first book I've ever seen portray that, so we really wanted to support it! (Although, I will say, said family member has not yet finished the book. Haha.) Three of us have even been reading from the same copy in my household, passing it around to read a certain number of pages each day, which has been... interesting. But it's made for a very special reading experience.
It was a wholesome and uplifting story, even giving me some motivation and cheer in this difficult time. I loved the focus on all the strong relationships Libby has with the women in her life; from her sister and her Mom, to her teacher, to her new friend Talia.
At times I thought she was written a little young for a 12 year old? And I knew this might bother my family member with Turners, as it's kind of implied as a symptom. However, I felt like this was clarified more clearly once Libby was officially diagnosed with a non-verbal learning difficulty, a separate thing that sometimes occur due to Turners.
I thought it was really important that the book broached the topic of pregnancy and fertility through Libby's sister without it being too overwhelming. It was handled well for the age group, having the character think about but not dwell on the idea of motherhood. The importance was put on family as a unit, rather than specifically on a Mother-child relationship, or on any weird ideas about the sanctity of childbirth.
This had all the makings of a classic middle grade, especially Libby's determined mission to get Cecilia Payne in the textbook. Lovely prose, sweet story, great characters. Definitely recommend.
October 3, 2022
A marvellous book.It really worth to five stars.
The book tells us the story of a 12 year old girl,Libby,who was born with a Turner syndrome.She has no friends, she mostly spend her time in library, with reading books.One of her heroes is Cecilia Payne-astrologist-who invented what stars are made of.
When she get the news that her sister will has a daughter, and she will be aunt, she wants to join the Smithsonian contest.It is a contest which you are writing a letter and tell about one of the underrated historical face who had a great impact to the world.In a 25 thousand dollar reward, she wants to keep her niece safe, because she doesn't want her to born with a disease like her.
As the story goes, she met with Talia who becomes her best friend, and they help each other all the way through. So,she have to try so hard to reach her goal. Will she be successful?
One of the part that I really liked in the book was that when I read the book I actually felt as if it was written by a 12 year old girl.It is a book, that you can read in a day,in a blink of an eye.It may seem as a child book, but it has a lot to say.
Sarah Allen-writer is also a person with a Turner syndrome, and with this story we can feel all of the little girls' pain at Libby's instance.
The book tells us the story of a 12 year old girl,Libby,who was born with a Turner syndrome.She has no friends, she mostly spend her time in library, with reading books.One of her heroes is Cecilia Payne-astrologist-who invented what stars are made of.
When she get the news that her sister will has a daughter, and she will be aunt, she wants to join the Smithsonian contest.It is a contest which you are writing a letter and tell about one of the underrated historical face who had a great impact to the world.In a 25 thousand dollar reward, she wants to keep her niece safe, because she doesn't want her to born with a disease like her.
As the story goes, she met with Talia who becomes her best friend, and they help each other all the way through. So,she have to try so hard to reach her goal. Will she be successful?
One of the part that I really liked in the book was that when I read the book I actually felt as if it was written by a 12 year old girl.It is a book, that you can read in a day,in a blink of an eye.It may seem as a child book, but it has a lot to say.
Sarah Allen-writer is also a person with a Turner syndrome, and with this story we can feel all of the little girls' pain at Libby's instance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2020
This wouldn’t be the usual type of book that I would choose to read however, Net Galley kindly send me an ebook copy in exchange for a honest review.
I would rate this one a 3.5. A warm and beautifully written story following Ella a young girl suffering from Turner syndrome. The story was primarily aimed at a young adult audience however I still enjoyed it and found it very informative and learnt a lot about both Turner syndrome and science along with enjoying the story line. I also liked the sibling bond. A lovely story it was a joy to read.
I would rate this one a 3.5. A warm and beautifully written story following Ella a young girl suffering from Turner syndrome. The story was primarily aimed at a young adult audience however I still enjoyed it and found it very informative and learnt a lot about both Turner syndrome and science along with enjoying the story line. I also liked the sibling bond. A lovely story it was a joy to read.
February 23, 2020
I won this via goodreads giveaways in exchange for an honest review. All my opinions are my own.
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A wonderful, cute story with a heroine that is easy to root for and a delight to read about. I loved how she never gave up and kept going even when things got a little tough.
The scenes with her family had me smiling. I loved how close knit they were and supportive of each other.
Would highly recommend.
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A wonderful, cute story with a heroine that is easy to root for and a delight to read about. I loved how she never gave up and kept going even when things got a little tough.
The scenes with her family had me smiling. I loved how close knit they were and supportive of each other.
Would highly recommend.
October 13, 2019
I had the privilege of reading this book last year before it got a book deal and it is genuinely one of the most engagingly written, wonderful middle grade novels I've ever had the chance to read!
(Edited 9/27 to remove the bizarre typos that came from voice transcription. What's a "bug deal," anyway?!)
(Edited 9/27 to remove the bizarre typos that came from voice transcription. What's a "bug deal," anyway?!)
March 24, 2020
(Thank you to my Mum for typing this for me).
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me this eARC in return for an honest review.
This book follows the main character Libby, who was born with Turner syndrome. Libby is determined to help her sister and brother-in-law when she finds out they are pregnant and don't have enough money to all be able to live together. She is also determined to get her scientific role model, Cecilia Payne, into her school text books.
What I Liked:
- Turner syndrome. While this book isn't all about Libby and Turner syndrome, it was clear that this was an own voices story. The discussion around being different and having medical issues was authentic and I really related to it. I think it did a great job of educating and showcasing what made Libby the same as everyone else, while not disregarding what made her different. This is probably the best book I've read with a protagonist living with a syndrome.
- Family. This book had a really great family dynamic, because Libby had 2 supportive parents and an older sister who she looks up to. They see Libby for everything that she is and try and encourage all her endeavours and make sure she's living the life she wants to.
- Science. I loved that this book talked about scientific and historical figure who have been forgotten or written out of text books. Libby was specifically focused on Cecilia Payne, who was the first person to discover what stars are made of, but her good friend Talia focused on Samoan figures who have been forgotten.
Overall this is. the perfect middle grade book for any lover of science, history or own voices stories. I truly believe anyone, no matter what age, could get something from reading this book. I am excited to see what Sarah Allen writes next.
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me this eARC in return for an honest review.
This book follows the main character Libby, who was born with Turner syndrome. Libby is determined to help her sister and brother-in-law when she finds out they are pregnant and don't have enough money to all be able to live together. She is also determined to get her scientific role model, Cecilia Payne, into her school text books.
What I Liked:
- Turner syndrome. While this book isn't all about Libby and Turner syndrome, it was clear that this was an own voices story. The discussion around being different and having medical issues was authentic and I really related to it. I think it did a great job of educating and showcasing what made Libby the same as everyone else, while not disregarding what made her different. This is probably the best book I've read with a protagonist living with a syndrome.
- Family. This book had a really great family dynamic, because Libby had 2 supportive parents and an older sister who she looks up to. They see Libby for everything that she is and try and encourage all her endeavours and make sure she's living the life she wants to.
- Science. I loved that this book talked about scientific and historical figure who have been forgotten or written out of text books. Libby was specifically focused on Cecilia Payne, who was the first person to discover what stars are made of, but her good friend Talia focused on Samoan figures who have been forgotten.
Overall this is. the perfect middle grade book for any lover of science, history or own voices stories. I truly believe anyone, no matter what age, could get something from reading this book. I am excited to see what Sarah Allen writes next.
March 24, 2020
(Thank you to my Mum for typing this for me).
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me this eARC in return for an honest review.
This book follows the main character Libby, who was born with Turner syndrome. Libby is determined to help her sister and brother-in-law when she finds out they are pregnant and don't have enough money to all be able to live together. She is also determined to get her scientific role model, Cecilia Payne, into her school text books.
What I Liked:
- Turner syndrome. While this book isn't all about Libby and Turner syndrome, it was clear that this was an own voices story. The discussion around being different and having medical issues was authentic and I really related to it. I think it did a great job of educating and showcasing what made Libby the same as everyone else, while not disregarding what made her different. This is probably the best book I've read with a protagonist living with a syndrome.
- Family. This book had a really great family dynamic, because Libby had 2 supportive parents and an older sister who she looks up to. They see Libby for everything that she is and try and encourage all her endeavours and make sure she's living the life she wants to.
- Science. I loved that this book talked about scientific and historical figure who have been forgotten or written out of text books. Libby was specifically focused on Cecilia Payne, who was the first person to discover what stars are made of, but her good friend Talia focused on Samoan figures who have been forgotten.
Overall this is. the perfect middle grade book for any lover of science, history or own voices stories. I truly believe anyone, no matter what age, could get something from reading this book. I am excited to see what Sarah Allen writes next.
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me this eARC in return for an honest review.
This book follows the main character Libby, who was born with Turner syndrome. Libby is determined to help her sister and brother-in-law when she finds out they are pregnant and don't have enough money to all be able to live together. She is also determined to get her scientific role model, Cecilia Payne, into her school text books.
What I Liked:
- Turner syndrome. While this book isn't all about Libby and Turner syndrome, it was clear that this was an own voices story. The discussion around being different and having medical issues was authentic and I really related to it. I think it did a great job of educating and showcasing what made Libby the same as everyone else, while not disregarding what made her different. This is probably the best book I've read with a protagonist living with a syndrome.
- Family. This book had a really great family dynamic, because Libby had 2 supportive parents and an older sister who she looks up to. They see Libby for everything that she is and try and encourage all her endeavours and make sure she's living the life she wants to.
- Science. I loved that this book talked about scientific and historical figure who have been forgotten or written out of text books. Libby was specifically focused on Cecilia Payne, who was the first person to discover what stars are made of, but her good friend Talia focused on Samoan figures who have been forgotten.
Overall this is. the perfect middle grade book for any lover of science, history or own voices stories. I truly believe anyone, no matter what age, could get something from reading this book. I am excited to see what Sarah Allen writes next.
March 21, 2020
Libby Monroe is seeing stars. She is determined to bring to light the accomplishments of Cecilia Payne, the woman whose doctoral thesis gave us a new outlook on the composition of stars. Her thesis was rejected, only to be recycled by the very men who denied her findings. When Libby finds out about a contest the Smithsonian is running for junior high students, she decides her project will feature Cecilia Payne. Meanwhile Libby has an older sister who has moved back home while her husband is working at a job away from home and is expecting a baby. The upcoming addition to the family inspires Libby to work even harder despite her Turner Syndrome and the difficulties in achieving her goals. Both Libby's parents and her older sister are happily married and very supportive, helping her work through the negative aspects of her disorder. She also has a fantastic resource in her history teacher. Throughout the book, there are believable "aha" moments that can be helpful to any middle grader. One of my favorites was when she realizes that broken people are like "kintsugi" -- the golden pottery repair practiced in Japan. Such a beautiful way to look at our scars.
Thank you to Macmillan and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Macmillan and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2021
This is the kind of book I wish I had when I was younger! It is so rare to find any sort of Turner’s Syndrome representation in books and media. Libby is an adorable, audacious, and driven young girl who also happens to have TS and has a wonderful support system around her. I’ve never felt so seen by a book.
March 21, 2020
I received a physical ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
TW: pregnancy talk including miscarriage
Representation: Samoan sc, Turners Syndrome
Sarah Allen's debut novel follows a twelve-year-old girl named Libby who is making her way through seventh-grade while dealing with many internal and physical hardships as she was born with Turners Syndrome. Libby struggles to make friends and turns to her favorite historical figures and scientists to help her through her school days.
Libby loves science and is infatuated with the famous astronomer, Cecilia Payne. This novel was educational and heartwarming as I read about Libby and her struggles while trying to live her childhood. Libby's sister, Nonny comes home from living with her husband, Thomas in Chicago, to her childhood home in Colorado to announce her pregnancy and live with her family while Thomas is busy traveling for work. Libby takes the situation into her own hands and makes a deal with the universe to help her to win a writing contest with a grand prize of $25,000. Libby is determined to win the contest to help her sister, the baby, and her brother-in-law.
I had never read about Turners Syndrome before reading this book and I'm grateful for this book that I'm now a little more educated on the subject. Sarah Allen was born with Turners Syndrome. Thus, this book is #ownvoices. Libby was such a sweet, innocent and naive character and Allen did a great job of writing from the perspective of the main character who is a child. I felt as if I was in the mind of Libby at all times throughout the book. I also loved the addition of Talia, she was stern and fierce and the best companion for Libby. I love seeing a strong sibling relationship especially between sisters so, I really admired Nonny and Libby's relationship.
Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone, but specifically, any child who is interested in history, science, and astronomy. As a debut novel, this book had strong writing and was fast-paced! A couple of minor flaws I had was that some of the content was too explicit at the end; specifically during the birth scenes toward the end of the book. Also, I understand that with Turners Syndrome, Libby thinks and acts differently but I felt that since she had a strong relationship with her parents, it was odd that she waited until the last minute to ask her mother about going to the lecture at the college to meet the author of her history textbook.
TW: pregnancy talk including miscarriage
Representation: Samoan sc, Turners Syndrome
Sarah Allen's debut novel follows a twelve-year-old girl named Libby who is making her way through seventh-grade while dealing with many internal and physical hardships as she was born with Turners Syndrome. Libby struggles to make friends and turns to her favorite historical figures and scientists to help her through her school days.
Libby loves science and is infatuated with the famous astronomer, Cecilia Payne. This novel was educational and heartwarming as I read about Libby and her struggles while trying to live her childhood. Libby's sister, Nonny comes home from living with her husband, Thomas in Chicago, to her childhood home in Colorado to announce her pregnancy and live with her family while Thomas is busy traveling for work. Libby takes the situation into her own hands and makes a deal with the universe to help her to win a writing contest with a grand prize of $25,000. Libby is determined to win the contest to help her sister, the baby, and her brother-in-law.
I had never read about Turners Syndrome before reading this book and I'm grateful for this book that I'm now a little more educated on the subject. Sarah Allen was born with Turners Syndrome. Thus, this book is #ownvoices. Libby was such a sweet, innocent and naive character and Allen did a great job of writing from the perspective of the main character who is a child. I felt as if I was in the mind of Libby at all times throughout the book. I also loved the addition of Talia, she was stern and fierce and the best companion for Libby. I love seeing a strong sibling relationship especially between sisters so, I really admired Nonny and Libby's relationship.
Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone, but specifically, any child who is interested in history, science, and astronomy. As a debut novel, this book had strong writing and was fast-paced! A couple of minor flaws I had was that some of the content was too explicit at the end; specifically during the birth scenes toward the end of the book. Also, I understand that with Turners Syndrome, Libby thinks and acts differently but I felt that since she had a strong relationship with her parents, it was odd that she waited until the last minute to ask her mother about going to the lecture at the college to meet the author of her history textbook.
October 13, 2020
Can I finish a book in under 2 hours?
.
.
.
Why, yes!
Here are the conditions:
* My kids leave me alone
* Couch is sufficiently comfy
* The book is as good as this one!
.
.
.
What Stars are Made of by @sarahallenbooks took hold of me from the first page and the first few lines, which made me laugh and also made me curious. I didn't know anything about Turner syndrome before reading this book, but now I know more. I didn't know anything about Ceclia Payne before reading this book, but now I know more (look her up! She’s amazing). Learning about the world through fiction is just the best, isn't it?
.
.
.
I was also inspired by the teacher in this book who gave her students the assignment to research and present someone who wasn't in the history textbook (Stealing! reminds me of #disrupttexts!). Subplots in this book barely felt like subplots because I was attached to all the characters 100%. I basically lived in this world for 2 hours straight and was super sad when I had to leave it as I finished the last page. I can't wait to recommend this book all over the place. Grades 3+.
.
.
.
#middleschoollibrarian #middleschoollibrary #library #librarian #futurereadylibs #iteachlibrary #bookstagrammer #bookstagram #librariesofinstagram #librariansofinstagram #librariesfollowlibraries #librarylife #librarianlife #schoollibrarian #middlegrade #middlegradebooks #iteach #librarylove #booksbooksbooks #amreading #bibliophile #schoollibrariansrock #bookreview #bookrecommendation #igreads #malibrary #whatstarsaremadeof
.
.
.
Why, yes!
Here are the conditions:
* My kids leave me alone
* Couch is sufficiently comfy
* The book is as good as this one!
.
.
.
What Stars are Made of by @sarahallenbooks took hold of me from the first page and the first few lines, which made me laugh and also made me curious. I didn't know anything about Turner syndrome before reading this book, but now I know more. I didn't know anything about Ceclia Payne before reading this book, but now I know more (look her up! She’s amazing). Learning about the world through fiction is just the best, isn't it?
.
.
.
I was also inspired by the teacher in this book who gave her students the assignment to research and present someone who wasn't in the history textbook (Stealing! reminds me of #disrupttexts!). Subplots in this book barely felt like subplots because I was attached to all the characters 100%. I basically lived in this world for 2 hours straight and was super sad when I had to leave it as I finished the last page. I can't wait to recommend this book all over the place. Grades 3+.
.
.
.
#middleschoollibrarian #middleschoollibrary #library #librarian #futurereadylibs #iteachlibrary #bookstagrammer #bookstagram #librariesofinstagram #librariansofinstagram #librariesfollowlibraries #librarylife #librarianlife #schoollibrarian #middlegrade #middlegradebooks #iteach #librarylove #booksbooksbooks #amreading #bibliophile #schoollibrariansrock #bookreview #bookrecommendation #igreads #malibrary #whatstarsaremadeof
April 5, 2020
3.5 STARS
Seventh grader Libby has Turner’s Syndrome, a chromosomal disorder that affects her hearing, stature, reproductive ability among other things. She believer her pregnant sister Nonny’s baby will be okay if Libby can win money from a science contest to help out.
I loved Libby’s enthusiasm for science. Her stick-to-itiveness and positive attitude. She literally and figuratively had a big heart.
Debut writer Sarah Allen also has Turner’s Syndrome, which may have colored her depiction of Libby in this middle grade novel which will appeal mostly to younger readers in this category. Allen gave Libby a cheerful, precocious voice without a bit of edge. Libby reminded me a lot of Pollyanna, so much that she didn’t feel authentic. Undoubtedly a great kid, she never got on her parents’ or sister’s nerves, always knew when to step back and never rebelled. She did have problems socially, though only with mean kids who later reformed. Libby was a quick learner, when Nonny told her how to communicate better with peers and make friends, Libby understood right away.
WHAT STARS ARE MADE OF is a sweet, middle grade story that will appeal to younger MG readers.
Seventh grader Libby has Turner’s Syndrome, a chromosomal disorder that affects her hearing, stature, reproductive ability among other things. She believer her pregnant sister Nonny’s baby will be okay if Libby can win money from a science contest to help out.
I loved Libby’s enthusiasm for science. Her stick-to-itiveness and positive attitude. She literally and figuratively had a big heart.
Debut writer Sarah Allen also has Turner’s Syndrome, which may have colored her depiction of Libby in this middle grade novel which will appeal mostly to younger readers in this category. Allen gave Libby a cheerful, precocious voice without a bit of edge. Libby reminded me a lot of Pollyanna, so much that she didn’t feel authentic. Undoubtedly a great kid, she never got on her parents’ or sister’s nerves, always knew when to step back and never rebelled. She did have problems socially, though only with mean kids who later reformed. Libby was a quick learner, when Nonny told her how to communicate better with peers and make friends, Libby understood right away.
WHAT STARS ARE MADE OF is a sweet, middle grade story that will appeal to younger MG readers.
November 17, 2020
”One Individual can make an incredible difference, but that individual is shaped and created by and influenced by thousands of other people. And that person shapes and creates and influences thousands of other individuals in return.”
EYAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
Okay, whoo. Sorry for the big wailing scream that sounds like a person accidentally getting too hyper on Coffee. Or too overwhelmed by doses of sappy sadness.
I fell in love with this book and all it’s beautiful pages and words.
The main character Libby is very mature for her age. She knows what she’s supposed to do, and she follows through with her plans. She has a supportive family that trusts and loves her. And she strives to be the best that she can be. You can’t help but fall in love with her big fiery spirit.
She tries to win a contest so her sister can be able to take care of her baby. Knowing that she would anything for her new niece. And honestly, she hits a few dead ends in doing so, but she still manages to come out on the other side.
It took a while for me to fall into the pages of this lovely book, but it was worth it.
EYAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
Okay, whoo. Sorry for the big wailing scream that sounds like a person accidentally getting too hyper on Coffee. Or too overwhelmed by doses of sappy sadness.
I fell in love with this book and all it’s beautiful pages and words.
The main character Libby is very mature for her age. She knows what she’s supposed to do, and she follows through with her plans. She has a supportive family that trusts and loves her. And she strives to be the best that she can be. You can’t help but fall in love with her big fiery spirit.
She tries to win a contest so her sister can be able to take care of her baby. Knowing that she would anything for her new niece. And honestly, she hits a few dead ends in doing so, but she still manages to come out on the other side.
It took a while for me to fall into the pages of this lovely book, but it was worth it.
December 29, 2019
I especially love stories that challenge my own personal understanding of things in the world, even as an adult. Libby who has Turner Syndrome is an audacious young girl with GOALS. When Libby’s sister, Nonny , has to come stay with them for awhile while her husband works in Florida due to money issues - to find out later she was expecting - Libby decides then and there she WILL help her family by winning a contest with the Smithsonian Institution. Something I especially loved about Libby is her persistence to get an unknown female, Cecilia Payne, the respect and the coverage she deserved as the first female to discover what stars are made of. This story shows what bravery can truly do for you as a young kid, especially a young female, and how using your voice for change can be one of the boldest and strongest things you can do. This novel is totally heart warming. It’s a story that I know will give my students courage when they may not feel capable, and confidence when they may not feel like they know who they are. Highly recommend.
January 31, 2020
I received this ARC from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This story follows Libby, a bright science-loving girl with Turner Syndrome. When Libby's teacher mentions a contest to teach people about someone important who didn't make it into the history books, she knows right away who she is going to pick and why she has to win.
This was a great story that made Libby a very relatable character. As a reader, it was easy to root for Libby and Talia. Her sister Nonny gives Libby (and perceptive readers) some great practical hints on making conversations with friends. This is a great read.
This story follows Libby, a bright science-loving girl with Turner Syndrome. When Libby's teacher mentions a contest to teach people about someone important who didn't make it into the history books, she knows right away who she is going to pick and why she has to win.
This was a great story that made Libby a very relatable character. As a reader, it was easy to root for Libby and Talia. Her sister Nonny gives Libby (and perceptive readers) some great practical hints on making conversations with friends. This is a great read.
January 16, 2021
So, so sweet! This story touched on everything I love in a MG novel: friendship, family, insecurities, disappointment, courage, women in STEM, and learning to love yourself. Highly recommended for ages 8 and up!
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January 31, 2020I dare anyone to read WHAT STARS ARE MADE OF by Sarah Allen and not fall completely in love with the main character, twelve-year-old Libby Monroe. Libby is irresistible: kind, smart, earnest, brave, and funny, with a voice that charmed me from the first page.
Libby would do anything to ensure that her pregnant older sister, Nonny, has a healthy baby, so she makes a deal with the universe: she will convince the editor of her history textbook to add Cecilia Payne, the woman who discovered what stars are made of, so everyone can learn about her, and she’ll win the grand prize in the Smithsonian Women in STEM competition and win enough money to pull Nonny and her husband out of their financial black hole. In return for sharing her legacy, Cecilia Payne will look out for the baby and make sure nothing goes wrong. Libby is conscious of how people sometimes give her looks that mean “you’re so cute,” and what I love so much about this book is that, while readers will realize the flaws in Libby’s magical thinking, they will also be so fully swept up in her emotions and desires that they will feel them along with her. Libby’s story is told with so much compassion and wisdom that I never thought, “Oh, Libby, you’re so cute and naive,” because I was right there with her, understanding exactly why she wanted to take control and be the hero who could help Nonny in the way she thought Nonny needed.
I also love the way the book delves into Turner Syndrome. Like the author, Libby was born with Turner Syndrome, and Turner Syndrome is a big part of the narrative since it’s a big part of Libby’s life, but it’s also just one aspect of Libby’s vibrant identity, along with her love of science, her delightful relationships with her family members, her desire to be a good friend, her impressive determination and work ethic, and so much more.
Libby is a total delight, and so is this book. In my opinion, this will especially be a hit with 4th-6th grade readers.
Libby would do anything to ensure that her pregnant older sister, Nonny, has a healthy baby, so she makes a deal with the universe: she will convince the editor of her history textbook to add Cecilia Payne, the woman who discovered what stars are made of, so everyone can learn about her, and she’ll win the grand prize in the Smithsonian Women in STEM competition and win enough money to pull Nonny and her husband out of their financial black hole. In return for sharing her legacy, Cecilia Payne will look out for the baby and make sure nothing goes wrong. Libby is conscious of how people sometimes give her looks that mean “you’re so cute,” and what I love so much about this book is that, while readers will realize the flaws in Libby’s magical thinking, they will also be so fully swept up in her emotions and desires that they will feel them along with her. Libby’s story is told with so much compassion and wisdom that I never thought, “Oh, Libby, you’re so cute and naive,” because I was right there with her, understanding exactly why she wanted to take control and be the hero who could help Nonny in the way she thought Nonny needed.
I also love the way the book delves into Turner Syndrome. Like the author, Libby was born with Turner Syndrome, and Turner Syndrome is a big part of the narrative since it’s a big part of Libby’s life, but it’s also just one aspect of Libby’s vibrant identity, along with her love of science, her delightful relationships with her family members, her desire to be a good friend, her impressive determination and work ethic, and so much more.
Libby is a total delight, and so is this book. In my opinion, this will especially be a hit with 4th-6th grade readers.
April 29, 2020
Real talk: I cried. The themes and wisdom in this book are inspiring. Libby is a protagonist whose voice, drive, bravery, and compassion shine through. I was wholly absorbed and anxious to see how her story turned out. This is a book for anyone who has ever felt out of place or felt crippled by the fear of failure, who deserves the reaffirmation that they are beautiful and worthy just the way they are.
November 14, 2021
2021 Read Harder Challenge: Read an own voices book about disability. One of my favorite books of the year! Just as I was thinking about hanging up the Read Harder Challenge for next year, it led me to this book. Recommend this middle-grade read for everyone, no matter what your age.
August 8, 2023
Oh, my goodness, this was so incredibly great! I had never heard of Turner Syndrome and the main character is so brave and strong, even though she was born with this syndrome. Then come to find out in the afterword, that the author does too! Tug at my heartstrings!
April 7, 2021
A poignant story (I can use that word, right???) about a girl with Turner Syndrome who loves science and wants to win a contest to help her pregnant sister.
October 20, 2019
Thank you to the author and publisher for an ARC of this book.
I love a story that teaches me something new, and WHAT STARS ARE MADE OF did that while also entertaining me. Libby has Turner syndrome, a genetic condition where she only has one X chromosome, which impacts her body and mind in many ways. Libby does an excellent job of educating the reader about it, and the author has surrounded her with an incredibly supportive family who accept her unconditionally. Libby's relationship with her sister, Nonny is undoubtedly one of my new favorite MG sibling bonds and when Nonny moves back home while her husband is working out of state and tells Libby that she's pregnant, this relationship deepens in a new way. Libby's excitement is sometimes overshadowed by her worry that something might be wrong with the baby, which causes her to make a deal with the universe to keep the baby safe. Her selfless devotion to her family, despite her somewhat innocent and naive logic, is so heartwarming. This deal involves entering a contest, which leads her to make new connections, and discover truths about herself and life.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and I really hope that middle grade libraries will add it to their collections when it is released in March 2020.
I love a story that teaches me something new, and WHAT STARS ARE MADE OF did that while also entertaining me. Libby has Turner syndrome, a genetic condition where she only has one X chromosome, which impacts her body and mind in many ways. Libby does an excellent job of educating the reader about it, and the author has surrounded her with an incredibly supportive family who accept her unconditionally. Libby's relationship with her sister, Nonny is undoubtedly one of my new favorite MG sibling bonds and when Nonny moves back home while her husband is working out of state and tells Libby that she's pregnant, this relationship deepens in a new way. Libby's excitement is sometimes overshadowed by her worry that something might be wrong with the baby, which causes her to make a deal with the universe to keep the baby safe. Her selfless devotion to her family, despite her somewhat innocent and naive logic, is so heartwarming. This deal involves entering a contest, which leads her to make new connections, and discover truths about herself and life.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and I really hope that middle grade libraries will add it to their collections when it is released in March 2020.
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April 30, 2021I absolutely cannot believe that I just read a book about a girl with Turner syndrome, written by a woman with Turner syndrome. I have been waiting for that for years!!! I related to Libby a lot, and I loved her from the very first page. It was absolutely amazing to see how the book dealt with things that come with Turner syndrome - from giving yourself your daily shots of growth hormone, to infertility and wondering what parts of you are your syndrome and what parts of you are just you. I loved the family dynamics and the amazing support system Libby has. The plot was also very fun and entertaining and had me invested from the beginning to the end. This book has a lot of lovely, sweet and uplifting messages and really shows you both the hardships and beauty of being a little different. What Stars Are Made of will stick with me probably forever and will hold a very special place in my heart. I'm so glad this book exists.
June 18, 2020
The story: Libby, who has Turner's syndrome, knows she's a little different that all the other kids in her 7th grade class. But she also knows what she's good at--and she's determined to use her interest in science to win a prize in a contest in order to use the winnings to help her financially-strapped sister and brother-in-law. Can she also use her other brave qualities to make a friend and stop a bully?
June Cleaver's ratings: Language G; Violence G; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (children with medical conditions, bullying) PG; overall rating G. Good for grades 4-6.
Liz's comments: The author's actually having Turner Syndrome herself makes this book stand apart somewhat from the current trend of novels about people with disabilities. Purchase where there's an interest in #OtherVoices literature.
June Cleaver's ratings: Language G; Violence G; Sexual content G; Nudity G; Substance abuse G; Magic the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (children with medical conditions, bullying) PG; overall rating G. Good for grades 4-6.
Liz's comments: The author's actually having Turner Syndrome herself makes this book stand apart somewhat from the current trend of novels about people with disabilities. Purchase where there's an interest in #OtherVoices literature.
April 28, 2020
I just finished this debut novel by Sarah Allen and want to share it with everyone I know who has a middle grade child or appreciates young adult fiction! This book made me laugh. It made me cry. It inspired me and moved me. It told a story of courage and family and hope and fear. It told a story of being different. It engaged me from the very beginning and I had a hard time putting it down. I can’t wait to read more from Allen. Hers is a new, fresh, needed voice in YA fiction!
October 29, 2019
Absolutely fabulous!!!! Great story for a school read on so many levels. Libby is likable, relatable, and experiences so may things happening to kids today. Even the "good" kids pull pranks that get them in trouble Also great for introducing or continuing exploring strong women in history. Just all around good story!
April 16, 2020
WHAT STARS ARE MADE OF is a STEM-filled story about a bright & incredibly endearing girl with Turner syndrome who makes a deal with the universe and finds her voice in the process. I completely fell in love with Libby, and you will too.
September 7, 2020
Must read. Girl version of Wonder.
A well-written MG book.
A well-written MG book.
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