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Dawn Chandler #1
Dawn Chandler
Dawn Chandler likes the way her life is— or was. She liked going to the mall with her best friend, excelling at middle school, and attending church with her family. Typical life for a twelve-year-old in the city of Fresno.
When Dawn’s parents announced they were going to homeschool her, on her birthday no less, she felt like her world was falling apart. Normal kids are supposed to go to school, not read books at home. To make matters worse, they may be leaving the only home she’s ever known.
What are her parents thinking?
Before making the final moving decision, the Chandler family visits Lone Pine, a small town between Mt. Whitney and Death Valley. While there, Dawn and her siblings become acquainted with their eccentric great uncle, explore the new area, and meet a large homeschooling family. All of this makes the 'vacation' more bearable. Still, Dawn isn't sure if she can make the move and leave everything she’s familiar with behind.
Can Dawn learn the values of faith, family, and contentment?
When Dawn’s parents announced they were going to homeschool her, on her birthday no less, she felt like her world was falling apart. Normal kids are supposed to go to school, not read books at home. To make matters worse, they may be leaving the only home she’s ever known.
What are her parents thinking?
Before making the final moving decision, the Chandler family visits Lone Pine, a small town between Mt. Whitney and Death Valley. While there, Dawn and her siblings become acquainted with their eccentric great uncle, explore the new area, and meet a large homeschooling family. All of this makes the 'vacation' more bearable. Still, Dawn isn't sure if she can make the move and leave everything she’s familiar with behind.
Can Dawn learn the values of faith, family, and contentment?
175 pages, Unknown Binding
Published May 18, 2019
About the author
Eliza Noel
2 books97 followersEliza Noel is a home school graduate with passion for Jesus, people, and literature. Growing up, her favorite books were always Nancy Drew, Anne of Green Gables, and Pride and Prejudice. Around age twelve she wanted to read something with positive values in a modern setting, but couldn’t find what she was looking for. So she wrote it.
You can follow her writing journey and see snippets of her everyday life on elizanoel.com or by following @elizanoelauthor on social media.
You can follow her writing journey and see snippets of her everyday life on elizanoel.com or by following @elizanoelauthor on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
April 15, 2024
About this book:
“Dawn Chandler likes the way her life is— or was. She liked going to the mall with her best friend, excelling at middle school, and attending church with her family. Typical life for a twelve-year-old in the city of Fresno.
When Dawn’s parents announced they were going to homeschool her, on her birthday no less, she felt like her world was falling apart. Normal kids are supposed to go to school, not read books at home. To make matters worse, they may be leaving the only home she’s ever known.
What are her parents thinking?
Before making the final moving decision, the Chandler family visits Lone Pine, a small town between Mt. Whitney and Death Valley. While there, Dawn and her siblings become acquainted with their eccentric great uncle, explore the new area, and meet a large homeschooling family. All of this makes the 'vacation' more bearable. Still, Dawn isn't sure if she can make the move and leave everything she’s familiar with behind.
Can Dawn learn the values of faith, family, and contentment?”
Series: Book #1 in the “Dawn Chandler” series.
Spiritual Content- Scriptures are read & discussed (most in a sermon); Prayers & Blessings over food; Church going & a sermon about contentment (which Dawn makes notes on); Dawn’s parents decided to homeschool their kids after praying about it and due to “recent things at school that as Christians we can’t morally agree with”; *Spoilers* ; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, pastors, sermons, worshiping, & worship songs; Mentions of Christian bands/singers (Citizens of Glory, Skillet, Royal Tailor, & Branan Murphy); A few mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; A few mentions of those & events in the Bible; A couple mentions of blessings; A mention of being Christians; A mention of Heaven;
*Note: Dawn wonders if the new town is working a “spell” or using its “magic charms” on her because she’s not as miserable as she thought she would be; A mention of ghosts (teasing); A mention of Santa Claus; A mention of cave girls.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘dumb’; Eye rolling, sarcasm, & sibling teasing (nearly all eye rolling and sarcasm are done in a teasing/non-mean spirited way); A field trip to a concentration camp for Japanese-Americans during World War II (Dawn finds it sad and creepy, barely-above-not-detailed);
Dawn is sad to leave her hometown and friends & is upset at the situation but thinks that her parents know what’s best for her…“probably” (she goes back and forth thinking that it will be awful and it being a new adventure; She does voice an attitude and shows a bit of defiance a few times, which her parents comment on her to change it; *Spoilers* ); Dawn gets in a bad mood (attitude and disrespectful) & her mother and her have a talk; Dawn isn’t sure about being homeschooled because school has practically been her whole world; Dawn and her best friend’s relationship gets a bit rocky throughout the book because of making new friends and being in different places (*Spoiler* ); A girl comments to Dawn about her being stuck up and snobby since Dawn is from the big city (which Dawn showed none of this towards her and Moriah says that the girl is going through a lot and is “upset with the world right now”); A few jabs/mean comments from a bully (which Dawn says one back and feels guilt over it; nothing is resolved about that, hinting that it might be discussed the next book in the series); Mentions of someone falling off a roof & the injuries (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a concentration camp for Japanese-Americans during World War II; A few mentions of injuries from mountain biking accidents (including paralyzing someone); A few mentions of bullies & bullies; A couple mentions of the Civil War (referring to an outfit from that time period); A couple mentions of bullets & shooting; A couple mentions of jail; A mention of crimes; A mention of robbers; A mention of stealing; A mention of jealousy; A mention of gossip; A mention of a someone looking like a dying dog when trying to dance; A mention of animal poop;
*Note: When an older teen teases Dawn and makes comments against her hometown, she wants to slap him (but does not); Mentions of stereotypes of those who live in the country and homeschoolers & Dawn being shocked by the lack of accuracy; Mentions of books, fictional characters, & quotes from them (Anne of Green Gables & Nancy Drew); Mentions of movies & TV shows (Princess Diaries, Gladiator (which isn’t allowed to be watched), Sound of Music, Snowball Express, & America’s Funniest Videos); A few mentions of restaurants & fast food chains (Red Robin, Olive Garden, & McDonald’s); A few mentions of brand names (Uggs & Nike); A mention of Disney (referring to an old movie); A mention of social media (YouTube); A mention of a girl in black sitting by herself (which Dawn is shocked to see emo kids in the new town); A mention of zombies.
Sexual Content- Dawn notices a handsome/cute older boy a few of times (including his kind attitude to others; her brother teases her about him once later); A few mentions of a handsome/cute boy & that Dawn and her friend would be giggling about him if together.
-Dawn Chandler, age 12
P.O.V. of Dawn (Prologue in Moriah’s)
167 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- Four Stars
New Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
This was such a cute large family and homeschool family representation!
I was a little concerned that Dawn would be a stinker or rude because of the impression of her not wanting to move or be homeschooled, but while she was sad and upset, she was mostly respectful and only had an attitude a handful of times (which her parents commented on and was always corrected and/or discussed), which I appreciated. It was realistic and also had the proper lessons with parental guidance and correction.
One minor comment I would note would be the statement about someone’s dancing looking like a “dying dog” which might upset some sensitive dog/animal lovers.
I don’t have too much to say about this middle-grade books besides that I really enjoyed it, the lessons, and could see many pre-teen/tween girls enjoying it as well!
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Author for this honest review.
“Dawn Chandler likes the way her life is— or was. She liked going to the mall with her best friend, excelling at middle school, and attending church with her family. Typical life for a twelve-year-old in the city of Fresno.
When Dawn’s parents announced they were going to homeschool her, on her birthday no less, she felt like her world was falling apart. Normal kids are supposed to go to school, not read books at home. To make matters worse, they may be leaving the only home she’s ever known.
What are her parents thinking?
Before making the final moving decision, the Chandler family visits Lone Pine, a small town between Mt. Whitney and Death Valley. While there, Dawn and her siblings become acquainted with their eccentric great uncle, explore the new area, and meet a large homeschooling family. All of this makes the 'vacation' more bearable. Still, Dawn isn't sure if she can make the move and leave everything she’s familiar with behind.
Can Dawn learn the values of faith, family, and contentment?”
Series: Book #1 in the “Dawn Chandler” series.
Spiritual Content- Scriptures are read & discussed (most in a sermon); Prayers & Blessings over food; Church going & a sermon about contentment (which Dawn makes notes on); Dawn’s parents decided to homeschool their kids after praying about it and due to “recent things at school that as Christians we can’t morally agree with”; *Spoilers* ; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, pastors, sermons, worshiping, & worship songs; Mentions of Christian bands/singers (Citizens of Glory, Skillet, Royal Tailor, & Branan Murphy); A few mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; A few mentions of those & events in the Bible; A couple mentions of blessings; A mention of being Christians; A mention of Heaven;
*Note: Dawn wonders if the new town is working a “spell” or using its “magic charms” on her because she’s not as miserable as she thought she would be; A mention of ghosts (teasing); A mention of Santa Claus; A mention of cave girls.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘dumb’; Eye rolling, sarcasm, & sibling teasing (nearly all eye rolling and sarcasm are done in a teasing/non-mean spirited way); A field trip to a concentration camp for Japanese-Americans during World War II (Dawn finds it sad and creepy, barely-above-not-detailed);
Dawn is sad to leave her hometown and friends & is upset at the situation but thinks that her parents know what’s best for her…“probably” (she goes back and forth thinking that it will be awful and it being a new adventure; She does voice an attitude and shows a bit of defiance a few times, which her parents comment on her to change it; *Spoilers* ); Dawn gets in a bad mood (attitude and disrespectful) & her mother and her have a talk; Dawn isn’t sure about being homeschooled because school has practically been her whole world; Dawn and her best friend’s relationship gets a bit rocky throughout the book because of making new friends and being in different places (*Spoiler* ); A girl comments to Dawn about her being stuck up and snobby since Dawn is from the big city (which Dawn showed none of this towards her and Moriah says that the girl is going through a lot and is “upset with the world right now”); A few jabs/mean comments from a bully (which Dawn says one back and feels guilt over it; nothing is resolved about that, hinting that it might be discussed the next book in the series); Mentions of someone falling off a roof & the injuries (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a concentration camp for Japanese-Americans during World War II; A few mentions of injuries from mountain biking accidents (including paralyzing someone); A few mentions of bullies & bullies; A couple mentions of the Civil War (referring to an outfit from that time period); A couple mentions of bullets & shooting; A couple mentions of jail; A mention of crimes; A mention of robbers; A mention of stealing; A mention of jealousy; A mention of gossip; A mention of a someone looking like a dying dog when trying to dance; A mention of animal poop;
*Note: When an older teen teases Dawn and makes comments against her hometown, she wants to slap him (but does not); Mentions of stereotypes of those who live in the country and homeschoolers & Dawn being shocked by the lack of accuracy; Mentions of books, fictional characters, & quotes from them (Anne of Green Gables & Nancy Drew); Mentions of movies & TV shows (Princess Diaries, Gladiator (which isn’t allowed to be watched), Sound of Music, Snowball Express, & America’s Funniest Videos); A few mentions of restaurants & fast food chains (Red Robin, Olive Garden, & McDonald’s); A few mentions of brand names (Uggs & Nike); A mention of Disney (referring to an old movie); A mention of social media (YouTube); A mention of a girl in black sitting by herself (which Dawn is shocked to see emo kids in the new town); A mention of zombies.
Sexual Content- Dawn notices a handsome/cute older boy a few of times (including his kind attitude to others; her brother teases her about him once later); A few mentions of a handsome/cute boy & that Dawn and her friend would be giggling about him if together.
-Dawn Chandler, age 12
P.O.V. of Dawn (Prologue in Moriah’s)
167 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- Four Stars
New Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
This was such a cute large family and homeschool family representation!
I was a little concerned that Dawn would be a stinker or rude because of the impression of her not wanting to move or be homeschooled, but while she was sad and upset, she was mostly respectful and only had an attitude a handful of times (which her parents commented on and was always corrected and/or discussed), which I appreciated. It was realistic and also had the proper lessons with parental guidance and correction.
One minor comment I would note would be the statement about someone’s dancing looking like a “dying dog” which might upset some sensitive dog/animal lovers.
I don’t have too much to say about this middle-grade books besides that I really enjoyed it, the lessons, and could see many pre-teen/tween girls enjoying it as well!
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Author for this honest review.
Want to Read
March 28, 2019I am SOOOO EXCITED for this book!!! I'll be leaving a review as soon as I actually get to...you know...READ IT. How can May be so far away?!?
May 13, 2019
FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a free ARC ecopy of this book. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Adorable middle grade novella about friendship and faith!
STORY
The story is well-paced and sweet, and since I knew which directions the story would take, that made it a fluffy read. The plot is great for middle grade girls looking for a inspiring stories about friendships and faith, though it's a uplifting read for anyone!
THEMES
This story isn't preachy at all with great doses of faith and kindness. The main character, Dawn, learns to have grace and faith in the Lord during trials. The Biblical messages were nothing short of encouraging!
CHARACTERS
The cast of this novella is a large one and a refreshing dose of reality--homeschool families not being Amish-like? Count me in, dude. The characters are well-rounded, humorous, and understandable.
CONTENT
Absolutely clean.
OVERALL
I enjoyed reading this novella. It was cute and I definitely hope there is a second book!
Adorable middle grade novella about friendship and faith!
STORY
The story is well-paced and sweet, and since I knew which directions the story would take, that made it a fluffy read. The plot is great for middle grade girls looking for a inspiring stories about friendships and faith, though it's a uplifting read for anyone!
THEMES
This story isn't preachy at all with great doses of faith and kindness. The main character, Dawn, learns to have grace and faith in the Lord during trials. The Biblical messages were nothing short of encouraging!
CHARACTERS
The cast of this novella is a large one and a refreshing dose of reality--homeschool families not being Amish-like? Count me in, dude. The characters are well-rounded, humorous, and understandable.
CONTENT
Absolutely clean.
OVERALL
I enjoyed reading this novella. It was cute and I definitely hope there is a second book!
February 25, 2020
Let me say first--I really loved the sweet sibling relationships and enjoyed the real-life interactions and friendships. I also appreciated the positive portrayal of both large families and homeschooling, which are both lacking in a lot of modern fiction. I feel like I would have loved a book with these themes as a middle-grader...
That said, there were a few things that kept me from loving the story quite as much as I wanted to. The ordinary-life feel was one of its strengths but also a weakness in some ways, since for a lot of the book, I kept waiting for something important to happen, and it seemed like nothing did for quite a long time. There were a number of scenes and conversations which were fun on their own but didn't really seem to contribute much to the storyline as a whole. Also, I had a bit of a hard time putting together the lesson and changes Dawn was supposed to be going through. Obviously she wasn't happy with her parents' choices at the beginning of the book, but I didn't get the feeling that she was showing that much of an attitude after the first few chapters, and then suddenly she's apologizing to her parents for how badly she's been acting. That confused me a bit, especially since her worst attitude issue seemed to come after she'd already apologized for her behavior. It left me a little unsure what exactly she was apologizing for. I also would have liked a bit more resolution to the bit with Rochelle.
Overall, though, I felt like these characters were the kind my family would have been great friends with growing up, and I'd love to see more books with these kinds of themes and relationships. I'll be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future. :)
Content--some bad attitudes and arguments (corrected); a few comments about girls noticing a cute boy
That said, there were a few things that kept me from loving the story quite as much as I wanted to. The ordinary-life feel was one of its strengths but also a weakness in some ways, since for a lot of the book, I kept waiting for something important to happen, and it seemed like nothing did for quite a long time. There were a number of scenes and conversations which were fun on their own but didn't really seem to contribute much to the storyline as a whole. Also, I had a bit of a hard time putting together the lesson and changes Dawn was supposed to be going through. Obviously she wasn't happy with her parents' choices at the beginning of the book, but I didn't get the feeling that she was showing that much of an attitude after the first few chapters, and then suddenly she's apologizing to her parents for how badly she's been acting. That confused me a bit, especially since her worst attitude issue seemed to come after she'd already apologized for her behavior. It left me a little unsure what exactly she was apologizing for. I also would have liked a bit more resolution to the bit with Rochelle.
Overall, though, I felt like these characters were the kind my family would have been great friends with growing up, and I'd love to see more books with these kinds of themes and relationships. I'll be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future. :)
Content--some bad attitudes and arguments (corrected); a few comments about girls noticing a cute boy
September 8, 2019
I was one of Eliza’s beta readers back when this thing was being edited.
I honestly really enjoyed this little middle grade contemporary. It’s a little outside of my age range (I read a lot of YA) so I couldn’t relate to Dawn like a younger audience might, but I still thought it was a cute story.
Definitely recommend for young girls and boys when looking for a clean, uplifting, inspirational story.
I honestly really enjoyed this little middle grade contemporary. It’s a little outside of my age range (I read a lot of YA) so I couldn’t relate to Dawn like a younger audience might, but I still thought it was a cute story.
Definitely recommend for young girls and boys when looking for a clean, uplifting, inspirational story.
May 29, 2019
*DISCLAIMER: The author gave me an ARC of this book for review purposes, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
"Dawn Chandler" was a delightful middle grade novel, full of innocence and friendship. There was even an introduction to a crush. This is a Christian book, so there is mention of God, church, and the Bible. I am picky about my middle grade books, but I found myself enjoying this one. Dawn was a sweet character who learned a valuable lesson about change and God's goodness. The family dynamic for the Jennings' was fun to see. This book had a wonderful ending that tied up loose ends but left room for a sequel. I am excited to see where Eliza takes theses characters. I rate this 5/5 stars for cleanness; 4/5 stars for characters; 5/5 stars for plot; and a personal rating of 4/5 stars.
"Dawn Chandler" was a delightful middle grade novel, full of innocence and friendship. There was even an introduction to a crush. This is a Christian book, so there is mention of God, church, and the Bible. I am picky about my middle grade books, but I found myself enjoying this one. Dawn was a sweet character who learned a valuable lesson about change and God's goodness. The family dynamic for the Jennings' was fun to see. This book had a wonderful ending that tied up loose ends but left room for a sequel. I am excited to see where Eliza takes theses characters. I rate this 5/5 stars for cleanness; 4/5 stars for characters; 5/5 stars for plot; and a personal rating of 4/5 stars.
May 19, 2019
I adored this book. It follows a 12 year old girl named Dawn, who goes from loving life, school, and spending time with her best friends to having her whole world turned upside down once she’s told that her and her siblings will be homeschooled and will possibly be moving to a small town. In the midst of these world shattering changes (I mean what 12 year old’s world wouldn’t be after that?) Dawn learns a lot about herself and how to trust God’s plan for her life, even when she doesn’t exactly like the circumstances. I only wish I had this book when I was in middle school and adjusting to homeschool life. If you’re looking for a good clean read for your middle school daughters that instills God’s values into their hearts then this book is perfect for them! Mom approved!
Disclaimer** I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Disclaimer** I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 3, 2019
Oh dear I was meant to review this a loooong time ago.
Here goes.
It was a good book. I liked it a lot. I would be more than happy to order a copy to share with my sisters! It was pure, wholesome, entertaining, and realistic! I loved that homeschooling cliche was broken and shared the reality of homeschooled kids! I loved the friendships that grew and the ones that stayed. The places were real to me in the way that they were described, so that was a lot of fun. In fact I think I want to re-read this one.. Hmmm. Can I use this Christmas gifts as an excuse to order it? XD
Four stars!
Here goes.
It was a good book. I liked it a lot. I would be more than happy to order a copy to share with my sisters! It was pure, wholesome, entertaining, and realistic! I loved that homeschooling cliche was broken and shared the reality of homeschooled kids! I loved the friendships that grew and the ones that stayed. The places were real to me in the way that they were described, so that was a lot of fun. In fact I think I want to re-read this one.. Hmmm. Can I use this Christmas gifts as an excuse to order it? XD
Four stars!
July 28, 2019
First of all you know you've been homeschooled most of your life when you are almost done with a book and you get called to breakfast. You calmly put the book down eat breakfast do your chores, then skip greeting your oldest sister to finish the book.
It is a fun book. I found it interesting how I did and didn't relate to the main character.
It is a fun book. I found it interesting how I did and didn't relate to the main character.
September 30, 2019
4.5 stars. I was delighted to discover that Eliza Noel was publishing her first book this year, and I just had to read it. Dawn Chandler delivers an endearing and much-needed addition to the roster of novels about homeschoolers.
Dawn Chandler (I love her name) is a unique take on a homeschooled protagonist. She's not thrilled when her parents decide to homeschool her and her siblings. She loves school and her friends; they're practically her whole life. Dawn's feelings are further complicated when she finds out her family might be moving to Lone Pine, a small out-of-the-way town far from the life she enjoys in Fresno.
Dawn's story details her experiences in Lone Pine as she gets to know some wonderful people there and struggles with missing her friends back in Fresno. I found it realistic and heartfelt. I also appreciated how Dawn is so much like a lot of young girls who aren't perfect but who genuinely want to grow in their relationship with God. Nothing came across as preachy, and the things she learns are easy to identify with. If I ever have a daughter, I would love for her to read this book around the time she's in junior high.
I'm glad this will be a series because I'm eager to see what happens next in Dawn's world!
Dawn Chandler (I love her name) is a unique take on a homeschooled protagonist. She's not thrilled when her parents decide to homeschool her and her siblings. She loves school and her friends; they're practically her whole life. Dawn's feelings are further complicated when she finds out her family might be moving to Lone Pine, a small out-of-the-way town far from the life she enjoys in Fresno.
Dawn's story details her experiences in Lone Pine as she gets to know some wonderful people there and struggles with missing her friends back in Fresno. I found it realistic and heartfelt. I also appreciated how Dawn is so much like a lot of young girls who aren't perfect but who genuinely want to grow in their relationship with God. Nothing came across as preachy, and the things she learns are easy to identify with. If I ever have a daughter, I would love for her to read this book around the time she's in junior high.
I'm glad this will be a series because I'm eager to see what happens next in Dawn's world!
May 7, 2019
*Disclaimer* I was given a copy of this book for review purposes.
This was a really great book! It was very realistic and was very young teenagerish. Dawn has to visit her great uncle in California and her family may end up moving there. She’s not happy at first, but she meets a wonderful family and makes some friends. Eliza really but thought and detail into this book and I love the cover! Make sure you go read this book!
This was a really great book! It was very realistic and was very young teenagerish. Dawn has to visit her great uncle in California and her family may end up moving there. She’s not happy at first, but she meets a wonderful family and makes some friends. Eliza really but thought and detail into this book and I love the cover! Make sure you go read this book!
October 12, 2020
This book was so cute!
I wasn't the targeted audience considering it is a middle grade novel but I still enjoyed it. I'm definitely going to have my younger sisters read it.
I loved the relationship between Dawn and her older brother, Kenneth. I also really liked the Jenning family. They were really fun! Each character was unique, and lovable. And the relationship between each character was great.
.
The story follows Dawn Chandler as she has to adjust to becoming homeschooled and learn to be content with the possibility of moving to a new town.
.
At some points I felt like things moved a bit quickly but I didn't feel like it was too quickly and it is a small book so not everything can take forever.
.
It had good faith content, was completely clean, and there was no romance. It would definitely be a great book for middle graders. Especially those who need to learn to be content right along with Dawn- me included.
.
Overall it was a cute read! It would make a great read-aloud book to younger siblings. I think that's what I am going to do. 😄
.
Have a great week everyone!
.
**I recieved a free copy of the author in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts expressed are strictly my own**
.
I wasn't the targeted audience considering it is a middle grade novel but I still enjoyed it. I'm definitely going to have my younger sisters read it.
I loved the relationship between Dawn and her older brother, Kenneth. I also really liked the Jenning family. They were really fun! Each character was unique, and lovable. And the relationship between each character was great.
.
The story follows Dawn Chandler as she has to adjust to becoming homeschooled and learn to be content with the possibility of moving to a new town.
.
At some points I felt like things moved a bit quickly but I didn't feel like it was too quickly and it is a small book so not everything can take forever.
.
It had good faith content, was completely clean, and there was no romance. It would definitely be a great book for middle graders. Especially those who need to learn to be content right along with Dawn- me included.
.
Overall it was a cute read! It would make a great read-aloud book to younger siblings. I think that's what I am going to do. 😄
.
Have a great week everyone!
.
**I recieved a free copy of the author in exchange for a honest review. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts expressed are strictly my own**
.
November 18, 2019
This was a sweet read!! I finally got a chance to read this adorable book and I enjoyed it a lot!
I definitely wasn't the intended audience: it read more middle-grade-y and I love middle grade, it's so sweet and pure and I love it, but it felt like it would be a lot more suited for middle-grade readers (mid-elementary school I think would be the ideal age, like ~4th grade or so)
With that, the writing style reflected that: it just felt simple. There were a lot of detailed descriptions of small things (outfits, appearances, etc) that weren't really relevant to the plot and a lot of things felt simplified, which is accurate to how a ~10 year old would perceive the world, but just felt oversimplified to me.
I did really like the homeschooling view where people weren't super preachy and Amish-y: the kids had cell phones, curling irons, and leggings (!!!!)
Overall, it was a sweet book and I enjoyed reading it!
Similar to: The Moody Family series by Sarah Maxwell
I definitely wasn't the intended audience: it read more middle-grade-y and I love middle grade, it's so sweet and pure and I love it, but it felt like it would be a lot more suited for middle-grade readers (mid-elementary school I think would be the ideal age, like ~4th grade or so)
With that, the writing style reflected that: it just felt simple. There were a lot of detailed descriptions of small things (outfits, appearances, etc) that weren't really relevant to the plot and a lot of things felt simplified, which is accurate to how a ~10 year old would perceive the world, but just felt oversimplified to me.
I did really like the homeschooling view where people weren't super preachy and Amish-y: the kids had cell phones, curling irons, and leggings (!!!!)
Overall, it was a sweet book and I enjoyed reading it!
Similar to: The Moody Family series by Sarah Maxwell
December 10, 2019
This book is written for a much younger audience then myself, but as a homeschool graduate of a large family, there was a lot in this book that I really appreciated and could relate to. The writing style is very simplistic, but once again I think that is because it is geared toward a younger audience. The story is sweet, although not overly exciting, but it does give a fairly realistic picture of a normal life for a young girl of 12, which I appreciated. I also loved the maps and drawings at the front of the book. They are well done and help give a visual of the town and I think it will be even more enjoyed by the age appropriate audience. The book has good morals applied without being overly preachy.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and would definitely want to have it on my bookshelf for my own daughters to pickup and read.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and would definitely want to have it on my bookshelf for my own daughters to pickup and read.
March 24, 2020
this is a well written story about a young girl and her journey as she moves to a new town and starts homeschooling. I would recommend for any girl who wants a positive Christian book.
October 25, 2020
3.5 stars.
I liked and disliked this book at the same time.
I myself am a fully homeschooled graduate, the oldest of eight, and so at times, I related to the characters and others I didn't as I felt that the book was ... Overly complicated but did not have anything to make it entertaining to middle-grade readers, however, there was also the lesson of learning contentment which was wonderfully done.
I did like points, I did dislike points, I'm leaning towards this book is really good for some and not for others, so read it for yourself, or pick it up for your middle-grader and let them read it.
Content-wise? I'd totally share this with any reader, a good message, just too much trying on the drama for me.
I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I liked and disliked this book at the same time.
I myself am a fully homeschooled graduate, the oldest of eight, and so at times, I related to the characters and others I didn't as I felt that the book was ... Overly complicated but did not have anything to make it entertaining to middle-grade readers, however, there was also the lesson of learning contentment which was wonderfully done.
I did like points, I did dislike points, I'm leaning towards this book is really good for some and not for others, so read it for yourself, or pick it up for your middle-grader and let them read it.
Content-wise? I'd totally share this with any reader, a good message, just too much trying on the drama for me.
I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
May 7, 2022
2.5 stars
Let’s start off with saying that I’m not the target age for this book; however, I read a lot of books written for middle grade readers that I really enjoy, but this wasn’t one. It wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t very interesting.
I did like Dawn and her siblings as well as the friends she made. They all sounded like normal people, but I really didn’t care for what happened to them. The things they did were kind of fun and normal, but I wasn’t quite sure what the plot was since they already knew they were going to homeschool, and were already wanting to move. I don’t know, maybe it was just me, but I was hoping for something that would take the normal and do something with it.
Like I said, it wasn't bad, I just didn't enjoy it.
Let’s start off with saying that I’m not the target age for this book; however, I read a lot of books written for middle grade readers that I really enjoy, but this wasn’t one. It wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t very interesting.
I did like Dawn and her siblings as well as the friends she made. They all sounded like normal people, but I really didn’t care for what happened to them. The things they did were kind of fun and normal, but I wasn’t quite sure what the plot was since they already knew they were going to homeschool, and were already wanting to move. I don’t know, maybe it was just me, but I was hoping for something that would take the normal and do something with it.
Like I said, it wasn't bad, I just didn't enjoy it.
October 26, 2020
This was a cute, light read! I liked the family atmosphere, especially since one of the families was large like my own. :) This is a perfect read for young kids, as it's about a 12-year-old girl and surrounded by other young people. The lesson of contentment Dawn learns is a good one and one that I've struggled with for a while.
**Thanks, Eliza, for sending me a review copy of your book. I completely forgot about it until now, so sorry about that!!**
**Thanks, Eliza, for sending me a review copy of your book. I completely forgot about it until now, so sorry about that!!**
May 25, 2019
This book was so amazing and i LOVED it! Just one thing though, I want to keep reading it but its over for the 6th time!
August 15, 2019
When I saw this book, it looked adorable, so I was excited when the author offered advance reader copies.
Unfortunately, I don't think I was the target audience for this book, thus my enjoyment was lessened.
I really felt like Dawn acted a lot older than twelve. Some of the things she did were very twelve-ish, but other then that, she acted like a sixteen to eighteen-year-old. I had trouble reminding myself how young she was.
Other then Dawn's age, there were only two things that really bugged me about this book. Number one was that the country people came off as kind of snobby since they keep mentioning "Snobby city people." there are several comments about people saying Dawn will get used to getting her hands dirty, and toughen up once she is in the country for a while. I know a lot of city girls who are pretty tough. I found this frustrating because it made the country people look snobby, and the city people look like sissys. 2. I really couldn't relate to Dawn's hatred for the idea of homeschooling.
On the upside, I really did like writing style. It was engaging, and the description of the setting beautiful. It was based in firm Christian principles, and having a family with a lot of kids was such a fun difference.
12-18-year-olds who enough a good family story and strong Christian themes, this book is for you.
FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Unfortunately, I don't think I was the target audience for this book, thus my enjoyment was lessened.
I really felt like Dawn acted a lot older than twelve. Some of the things she did were very twelve-ish, but other then that, she acted like a sixteen to eighteen-year-old. I had trouble reminding myself how young she was.
Other then Dawn's age, there were only two things that really bugged me about this book. Number one was that the country people came off as kind of snobby since they keep mentioning "Snobby city people." there are several comments about people saying Dawn will get used to getting her hands dirty, and toughen up once she is in the country for a while. I know a lot of city girls who are pretty tough. I found this frustrating because it made the country people look snobby, and the city people look like sissys. 2. I really couldn't relate to Dawn's hatred for the idea of homeschooling.
On the upside, I really did like writing style. It was engaging, and the description of the setting beautiful. It was based in firm Christian principles, and having a family with a lot of kids was such a fun difference.
12-18-year-olds who enough a good family story and strong Christian themes, this book is for you.
FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
April 3, 2022
A cute book, perfect for MG readers!
Dawn Chandler has a lot of changes to adjust to, and I think kids will really relate to her. The characters are all cute and engaging, and I loved their banter.
Also, the setting sounds gorgeous, and I'd love to visit one day!
Dawn Chandler has a lot of changes to adjust to, and I think kids will really relate to her. The characters are all cute and engaging, and I loved their banter.
Also, the setting sounds gorgeous, and I'd love to visit one day!
October 13, 2025
Preteen: 5 🌟
Personal: 3 🌟
My hope is that my 12 y/o daughter devours this book to gain hope and wisdom. The POV is such good timing for her in this stage of life. I loved the faith elements, the family relations, homeschool representation, and life application.
My personal rating is only due to the writing. It reminds me of a cheesy Christian movie, a lot of telling rather than showing. The messages throughout the book definitely outway the lackluster writing, and I highly recommend this book for preteens.
Christian MG contemporary fiction.
I will edit to add my daughter's rating after she reads it.
My daughter rated it 3.75 🌟
She was also disappointed in the writing as I was and wished it was longer. She says she would recommend this book to friends and peers her age.
Personal: 3 🌟
My hope is that my 12 y/o daughter devours this book to gain hope and wisdom. The POV is such good timing for her in this stage of life. I loved the faith elements, the family relations, homeschool representation, and life application.
My personal rating is only due to the writing. It reminds me of a cheesy Christian movie, a lot of telling rather than showing. The messages throughout the book definitely outway the lackluster writing, and I highly recommend this book for preteens.
Christian MG contemporary fiction.
I will edit to add my daughter's rating after she reads it.
My daughter rated it 3.75 🌟
She was also disappointed in the writing as I was and wished it was longer. She says she would recommend this book to friends and peers her age.
April 23, 2026
So much fun and so different and sweet! Reminded me of a modern Eight Cousins so many times!! (Just minus the sappy and of kind unsettling stuff XD)
Dawn is shocked when her parents announce they are taking their kids out of school (I was mentally cheering for and saluting them). What about all her friends?? Not only that, they may be moving hours away from her big city life to a small rural town across the mountains. IN fact, they pack up and go there for one whole month to find out. Cue a whole lot of heart work, some new friends, and maybe a happier than expected ending for Dawn, after all :)
OK, one of the things I loved most about this lil book was the kindred connection with so many "homeschool family" things. We're not the only ones! Whoo! XD I LOVED seeing a homeschool family (and an about-to-homeschool) family portrayed in a book that let them be their own characters. Applause for that element alone 👏
Shout outs!!
💚Dawn (12) and her big brother's (16) friendship. Even going to public school, these two hang out. They hang out you guys!!! They love each other and I loved their dynamic a lot.
The Chandler Parents: taking their kids out of school because of things they can "no not agree with morally", these two have all the makings of adults I highly respect already. Way to go for not sending your kids to Rome! This book may be a real encouragement to families making the transition.
💚The gentle plot. It's really internal, and just the daily life of meeting new friends, exploring town, snow days and a home-sewing fashion show as the backdrop. Love it!
💚The Jennings parents-two great parent duos in one book? Yay! Loved how the mom played skillet in the care on an early morning carpool to "wake them up" XD
💚Also the Jennings kids! A little bit to realistic to an American Homeschool family XD Loved the details like soaking beans and having only one bathroom for so many kids!!!
💚Uncle Keith!
What I'm just gonna point out for you:
🕶️ (removed)
Bonus 💚 "No way you're watching that, mister." when Kenneth suggested Gladiator. Nice to see some violence standards in films (even for boys) that could really make readers with similar experiences feel seen!! (I loved Kenneth in general, he was genuinely funny and so well done and realistic.) Just would have maybe loved a Mom-comment on Dawn's film idea, too (she was out of the room to be fair, or maybe Princess Diaries is one they allow...)
🕶️A siblings groans and says "that one gets annoying" about a song the other is humming. This was always a word we were raised to never say, with great results honestly so for any family going the same route and vetting books for it too, it's said once.
Some "normal" "bickering"...if I can even call it that. Just stuff like "See? You're not the only detective in the family and a lot of good natured teasing, more than we grew up with but nothing savage.
🕶️These two bits: When Dawn notices one boy at the skate park is more gentlemanly than the others, she thinks: "If my friends were here, Abigail would point him out, exclaiming in a hushed whisper that he's super cute. The other's would agree. We'd all giggle and dare each other to go talk to him." Then it moves on (we later meet this boy, one of the Jennings. No drama at all. But if it's brought up I would like a wholesome option aired as well: hopefully if such a topic is brought up again/Dawna has such thoughts or is tease, we also get a nice "don't worry about it at this age" or whatever chat is relevant and helpful to the plot in book two :)) THAT WAS MORE FOR THOSE WHO HAVE SIMILAR EXPOSURE TO ME AT THIS AGE, I'm not judging anyone here: it's not for me to tell you when you can start having/talking about crushes.
🌨️🏔️🏔️
This was a super well written book I loved so much about! :D Thank you to the author for writing what she wanted to read as a girl, and I look forward to what is next from her!!!!!
Dawn is shocked when her parents announce they are taking their kids out of school (I was mentally cheering for and saluting them). What about all her friends?? Not only that, they may be moving hours away from her big city life to a small rural town across the mountains. IN fact, they pack up and go there for one whole month to find out. Cue a whole lot of heart work, some new friends, and maybe a happier than expected ending for Dawn, after all :)
OK, one of the things I loved most about this lil book was the kindred connection with so many "homeschool family" things. We're not the only ones! Whoo! XD I LOVED seeing a homeschool family (and an about-to-homeschool) family portrayed in a book that let them be their own characters. Applause for that element alone 👏
Shout outs!!
💚Dawn (12) and her big brother's (16) friendship. Even going to public school, these two hang out. They hang out you guys!!! They love each other and I loved their dynamic a lot.
The Chandler Parents: taking their kids out of school because of things they can "no not agree with morally", these two have all the makings of adults I highly respect already. Way to go for not sending your kids to Rome! This book may be a real encouragement to families making the transition.
💚The gentle plot. It's really internal, and just the daily life of meeting new friends, exploring town, snow days and a home-sewing fashion show as the backdrop. Love it!
💚The Jennings parents-two great parent duos in one book? Yay! Loved how the mom played skillet in the care on an early morning carpool to "wake them up" XD
💚Also the Jennings kids! A little bit to realistic to an American Homeschool family XD Loved the details like soaking beans and having only one bathroom for so many kids!!!
💚Uncle Keith!
What I'm just gonna point out for you:
🕶️ (removed)
Bonus 💚 "No way you're watching that, mister." when Kenneth suggested Gladiator. Nice to see some violence standards in films (even for boys) that could really make readers with similar experiences feel seen!! (I loved Kenneth in general, he was genuinely funny and so well done and realistic.) Just would have maybe loved a Mom-comment on Dawn's film idea, too (she was out of the room to be fair, or maybe Princess Diaries is one they allow...)
🕶️A siblings groans and says "that one gets annoying" about a song the other is humming. This was always a word we were raised to never say, with great results honestly so for any family going the same route and vetting books for it too, it's said once.
Some "normal" "bickering"...if I can even call it that. Just stuff like "See? You're not the only detective in the family and a lot of good natured teasing, more than we grew up with but nothing savage.
🕶️These two bits: When Dawn notices one boy at the skate park is more gentlemanly than the others, she thinks: "If my friends were here, Abigail would point him out, exclaiming in a hushed whisper that he's super cute. The other's would agree. We'd all giggle and dare each other to go talk to him." Then it moves on (we later meet this boy, one of the Jennings. No drama at all. But if it's brought up I would like a wholesome option aired as well: hopefully if such a topic is brought up again/Dawna has such thoughts or is tease, we also get a nice "don't worry about it at this age" or whatever chat is relevant and helpful to the plot in book two :)) THAT WAS MORE FOR THOSE WHO HAVE SIMILAR EXPOSURE TO ME AT THIS AGE, I'm not judging anyone here: it's not for me to tell you when you can start having/talking about crushes.
🌨️🏔️🏔️
This was a super well written book I loved so much about! :D Thank you to the author for writing what she wanted to read as a girl, and I look forward to what is next from her!!!!!
June 16, 2019
I haven’t been reading a lot of middle grade fiction lately, but Dawn Chandler reminded me of all I’ve been missing—innocent characters, whimsical settings, and a straightforward plot driven by an overarching moral of the story. Dawn Chandler beautifully checked each of these boxes and more.
Warning: mild spoilers ahead!
Eliza Noel, coming from a big family herself, wonderfully captures the blithe chaos of a large family with her natural, affable dialogue and leapfrogging focal points. The very first scene of the book was reminiscent of busy mornings—there’s a tangible energy among her words that allows the reader to be in the Jennings’ kitchen as they get ready for the day. These first few pages pulled me into the book.
Noel has a knack for balancing a large cast of characters. Aided only by a list in the front of the book—a unique feature that reminded me of the old American Girl books, which, needless to say, I absolutely adored—she gives each character their own identity and differentiates all of them with an arsenal of nuances and dialogue styles. I rarely found myself mixing up characters, and on the few occasions I did, I could just flip to the front and read the character list.
Though I found the dialogue just a bit juvenile at some points, this book is middle grade, so that’s to be expected. But other than that, Dawn Chandler is bright, nostalgic, and a wonderful read for anyone of any age.
Warning: mild spoilers ahead!
Eliza Noel, coming from a big family herself, wonderfully captures the blithe chaos of a large family with her natural, affable dialogue and leapfrogging focal points. The very first scene of the book was reminiscent of busy mornings—there’s a tangible energy among her words that allows the reader to be in the Jennings’ kitchen as they get ready for the day. These first few pages pulled me into the book.
Noel has a knack for balancing a large cast of characters. Aided only by a list in the front of the book—a unique feature that reminded me of the old American Girl books, which, needless to say, I absolutely adored—she gives each character their own identity and differentiates all of them with an arsenal of nuances and dialogue styles. I rarely found myself mixing up characters, and on the few occasions I did, I could just flip to the front and read the character list.
Though I found the dialogue just a bit juvenile at some points, this book is middle grade, so that’s to be expected. But other than that, Dawn Chandler is bright, nostalgic, and a wonderful read for anyone of any age.
January 24, 2020
Cute
I remember being 12, anxious and hoping to meet kids my age--and of course being 12 you believe you're "not a kid", but still. This book captures the preteen age well and gives a positive light towards the subjects of Homeschooling, Christianity, and more.
My negative is the mean "emo-kid" stereotype, I didn't appreciate. As a Christian who dresses in "emo attire", it's hard to live with the stipulation against us.
I take no offense to this--just disappointed.
I also felt the brothers character could have been more rounded--having an older brother of my own, I found myself not relating to Dawn in that aspect.
Spoilers (kind of):
Knowing the aim, (and the author personally) I'm not surprised to find it kept on air--getting a couple scares and dramatic moments but never scary. I found it enjoyable, regardless.
Congratulations on your first book, Eliza. You did great.
I remember being 12, anxious and hoping to meet kids my age--and of course being 12 you believe you're "not a kid", but still. This book captures the preteen age well and gives a positive light towards the subjects of Homeschooling, Christianity, and more.
My negative is the mean "emo-kid" stereotype, I didn't appreciate. As a Christian who dresses in "emo attire", it's hard to live with the stipulation against us.
I take no offense to this--just disappointed.
I also felt the brothers character could have been more rounded--having an older brother of my own, I found myself not relating to Dawn in that aspect.
Spoilers (kind of):
Knowing the aim, (and the author personally) I'm not surprised to find it kept on air--getting a couple scares and dramatic moments but never scary. I found it enjoyable, regardless.
Congratulations on your first book, Eliza. You did great.
May 4, 2020
This book may not be written for my age range, but regardless, I LOVED IT!!
I actually was never interested in reading it - I thought it was probably some childish book for little girls that would never keep my attention. BUT.
I'm SO GLAD I read this book. It's a literal TREASURE. This book had me giggling, and fangirling in no time. The Christian content was SERIOUSLY AWESOME. And I'm proud to say that I would be absolutely delighted to give this book to my younger sisters to read.
(Actually I already bought it for my 10 year old sister - and needless to say, she ADORED it. Couldn't stop telling me ALL the things about it! xD)
WELL DONE, ELIZA!!
I actually was never interested in reading it - I thought it was probably some childish book for little girls that would never keep my attention. BUT.
I'm SO GLAD I read this book. It's a literal TREASURE. This book had me giggling, and fangirling in no time. The Christian content was SERIOUSLY AWESOME. And I'm proud to say that I would be absolutely delighted to give this book to my younger sisters to read.
(Actually I already bought it for my 10 year old sister - and needless to say, she ADORED it. Couldn't stop telling me ALL the things about it! xD)
WELL DONE, ELIZA!!
May 29, 2019
Such an amazing book. It might be for ages 9 to 12, but adults will definitely enjoy this too. This book is about a girl who was devastated because of her parents decision to move and switch to homeschooling. The thought of leaving her school and friends was terrifying. But things turned out differently than what she thought.
*** I recieved and ARC e-copy of this book to review. This has in no way hindered my opinion.
*** I recieved and ARC e-copy of this book to review. This has in no way hindered my opinion.
December 28, 2020
What an adorable little book! It was meant for a younger audience, but I still enjoyed it, and would recommend it to all middle graders. It was written clearly and precise, and carried a small town charm that made me smile. Loved the dynamic of so the siblings!
August 29, 2024
This book was definitely not my intended audience but it was a very cute story! Perfect for young children. It was well written!
March 3, 2021
Sorry girlie, not the best thing I've read. Cute, but so similar to every other teen/young adult book.
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