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The Space Between Lost and Found
Cassie’s always looked up to her mom, a vivacious woman with big ideas and a mischievous smile. Together they planned to check off every item on a big-dream bucket list, no matter how far the adventure would take them. But then Mom was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, and everything changed.
Now, Cassie tries to keep Mom happy, and to understand some of Dad’s restrictive new rules. She tries to focus on math lessons and struggles to come up with art ideas that used to just burst off her pen. When Mom’s memories started to fade, so did Cassie’s inspiration. And even worse, she’s accidentally pushed away Bailey, the one friend who could make it all okay.
After the worst Mom day yet, the day she forgets Cassie’s name, Cassie decides to take action. It’s time for one last adventure, even if it means lying and taking a big risk to get there. Sandy Stark-McGinnis, acclaimed author of Extraordinary Birds, explores big questions – the kind that don’t always have answers – in a powerful story about family, friendship, and the memories that will always be part of us.
Now, Cassie tries to keep Mom happy, and to understand some of Dad’s restrictive new rules. She tries to focus on math lessons and struggles to come up with art ideas that used to just burst off her pen. When Mom’s memories started to fade, so did Cassie’s inspiration. And even worse, she’s accidentally pushed away Bailey, the one friend who could make it all okay.
After the worst Mom day yet, the day she forgets Cassie’s name, Cassie decides to take action. It’s time for one last adventure, even if it means lying and taking a big risk to get there. Sandy Stark-McGinnis, acclaimed author of Extraordinary Birds, explores big questions – the kind that don’t always have answers – in a powerful story about family, friendship, and the memories that will always be part of us.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published April 28, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
May 12, 2020
Cassie Rodrigues has always been close to her Mom who had a larger than life personality and adventurous spirit. Their trips to the beach were marvellous. Kim was a strong swimmer who was in love with the ocean and really enjoyed ice-cream and flying kites. She wanted to swim across the Channel one day and whatever this wonderful woman set her mind on was not impossible. Until she started forgetting things and feeling disoriented. She couldn't follow a conversation or drive safely. Something was seriously wrong. Cassie's Mom got diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's and everything in Cassie's life has changed.
Cassie's Mom's doctor tried to explain the illness like this: 'Let's say you're trying to connect two pieces of paper together with glue. The pieces of paper are brain cells. On the spot where you need to attach them, there are patches of sand and dirt. And when you try to glue the papers, they don't stick.'
Gradually, Kim is losing her memory and Cassie knows she is running out of time.
The author did a wonderful job showing how difficult it was for Cassie to accept and keep accepting the changes every day. She is sad, and angry at the illness, not her Mom, who cannot take care of her the way other parents do. Cassie is an artistic child, but she seems unable to create, because everything is dwarfed by the enormity of what is happening to her mother. Cassie has always liked maths, numbers and patterns that help her make the sense of the world. Now she has to live with dark, scary, and unpredictable, like the fact that her Mom doesn't remember her name anymore. Cassie tries to use her art to help her Mom's brain find a way to her memories, which are still there, but are locked and inaccessible.
Cassie is finding it difficult to explain her Mom's illness and the changes her family is going through to other people, even her best friend Bailey, so she is pushing everyone away, until people stop trying to talk to her and she is left alone. Cassie didn't mean to hurt Bailey's feelings, but the way back to rebuilding their friendship and opening up isn't easy. Bringing Bailey home to work on a school project helps Cassie immensely. Bailey helps her see her Mom as a whole person again.
When Cassie's Dad says it is time to move Kim to a specialised facility, Cassie begs him to give her mother one last adventure, something that was on her bucket list. When he refuses even to consider it, Cassie decides to organise it herself (with a little help of Bailey and her older sister).
This short middle-grade book is both powerful and poignant. It is about family, art, friendship, and dealing with changes. It is difficult for a child to see their parent slip away, and it is difficult for the spouse to have to make all the choices and take all responsibility that used to be shared. Sandy Stark-McGinnis wrote an incredibly beautiful and heart-breaking book about things that make us what we are.
Thank you to Edelweiss and Bloomsbury for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
Cassie's Mom's doctor tried to explain the illness like this: 'Let's say you're trying to connect two pieces of paper together with glue. The pieces of paper are brain cells. On the spot where you need to attach them, there are patches of sand and dirt. And when you try to glue the papers, they don't stick.'
Gradually, Kim is losing her memory and Cassie knows she is running out of time.
The author did a wonderful job showing how difficult it was for Cassie to accept and keep accepting the changes every day. She is sad, and angry at the illness, not her Mom, who cannot take care of her the way other parents do. Cassie is an artistic child, but she seems unable to create, because everything is dwarfed by the enormity of what is happening to her mother. Cassie has always liked maths, numbers and patterns that help her make the sense of the world. Now she has to live with dark, scary, and unpredictable, like the fact that her Mom doesn't remember her name anymore. Cassie tries to use her art to help her Mom's brain find a way to her memories, which are still there, but are locked and inaccessible.
Cassie is finding it difficult to explain her Mom's illness and the changes her family is going through to other people, even her best friend Bailey, so she is pushing everyone away, until people stop trying to talk to her and she is left alone. Cassie didn't mean to hurt Bailey's feelings, but the way back to rebuilding their friendship and opening up isn't easy. Bringing Bailey home to work on a school project helps Cassie immensely. Bailey helps her see her Mom as a whole person again.
When Cassie's Dad says it is time to move Kim to a specialised facility, Cassie begs him to give her mother one last adventure, something that was on her bucket list. When he refuses even to consider it, Cassie decides to organise it herself (with a little help of Bailey and her older sister).
This short middle-grade book is both powerful and poignant. It is about family, art, friendship, and dealing with changes. It is difficult for a child to see their parent slip away, and it is difficult for the spouse to have to make all the choices and take all responsibility that used to be shared. Sandy Stark-McGinnis wrote an incredibly beautiful and heart-breaking book about things that make us what we are.
Thank you to Edelweiss and Bloomsbury for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
March 27, 2020
THE SPACE BETWEEN LOST AND FOUND by the author of EXTRAORDINARY BIRDS hit me right where I expected to. Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for priding the arc of this poignant and powerful book.
Cassie's life does a complete 360 when her mother is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimers. She loses touch with friends or focus on art. When the caregiver is not present, Cassie helps her dad take care of her mom by catering to her whims of watching dolphins shows and eating Ritz crackers all while making sure she doesn't run off and get lost. Or worse. These fears drive Cassie to try to reconnect with her mother by taking a trip to swim with dolphins, which has been her dream and one of the entries on her bucket list. But Cassie soon realizes that her mother will not get better and the road to acceptance is a hard one.
Although I have never been in the position of losing a loved one to such a disease, I could empathize with Cassie. It's a lot for a twelve-year-old girl to go through and the topic is a heavy one. But heavy topic or not, this novel is important. There are families out there dealing with situations like the one in this book and it would be great to have something for kid's Cassie's age to turn to and feel like they're not so alone.
I won't sugarcoat it. This is a sad book. I knew it going in because I'd first been introduced to Sandy's work with EXTRAORDINARY BIRDS. I do remember writing in my review that I could not wait to see what else she had in store for her readers and let me tell you, I was not disappointed. She crafted a heart-string tugging, sad and hopeful book, and I am honored to be able to review another one of her books before their release date.
Cassie's life does a complete 360 when her mother is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimers. She loses touch with friends or focus on art. When the caregiver is not present, Cassie helps her dad take care of her mom by catering to her whims of watching dolphins shows and eating Ritz crackers all while making sure she doesn't run off and get lost. Or worse. These fears drive Cassie to try to reconnect with her mother by taking a trip to swim with dolphins, which has been her dream and one of the entries on her bucket list. But Cassie soon realizes that her mother will not get better and the road to acceptance is a hard one.
Although I have never been in the position of losing a loved one to such a disease, I could empathize with Cassie. It's a lot for a twelve-year-old girl to go through and the topic is a heavy one. But heavy topic or not, this novel is important. There are families out there dealing with situations like the one in this book and it would be great to have something for kid's Cassie's age to turn to and feel like they're not so alone.
I won't sugarcoat it. This is a sad book. I knew it going in because I'd first been introduced to Sandy's work with EXTRAORDINARY BIRDS. I do remember writing in my review that I could not wait to see what else she had in store for her readers and let me tell you, I was not disappointed. She crafted a heart-string tugging, sad and hopeful book, and I am honored to be able to review another one of her books before their release date.
January 2, 2021
This was an extremely sad book for a middle school reader. Cassie’s mom has early onset Alzheimer’s and she isn’t going to get any better. Cassie and her dad are wonderful to her, but it looks like she might have to go to a facility in the near future. The book flips from the present to the past which I enjoyed reading about happier times. They live near a canyon and a desert and Kim, the mom, loves swimming.
February 7, 2020
Even though she is only a preteen, Cassie is assuming more and more adult type responsibilities at home, due to her mother having early-onset Alzheimer's. Although a caretaker is there when her father is at work, Cassie still spends a lot of time alone with her mother, time she earnestly uses to try to reawaken her mother's fading mind and memory. When she realizes all her attempts to revive her mother are failing, Cassie then decides to make one of her mother's wishes come true. In addition, she starts creating fantasies in her own mind where her mother will happily leave her lifetime, instead of it ending in mindlessness, a nursing home and a slow death.
Sandy Stark-McGinnis has written a highly readable children's book, free of clunkiness and condescension. It's also free of stereotypical behavior. For example, when Cassie encounters her estranged friend Bailey with a new group of girlfriends, those girls don't suddenly turn into mean girls who snicker, laugh at or bully her. Plus, Cassie herself is deeply into both art and math, which is not a common way characters are portrayed in children's books. Both art and math are shown as ways to deal with troubles and grief, too. They help Cassie to accept the inevitable, as does her renewed friendship with Bailey. Her mother's life will end as it was, but hers will go on, as her mother would have certainly wished for her daughter.
(Note: I received an ARC of this book from Amazon Vine.)
Sandy Stark-McGinnis has written a highly readable children's book, free of clunkiness and condescension. It's also free of stereotypical behavior. For example, when Cassie encounters her estranged friend Bailey with a new group of girlfriends, those girls don't suddenly turn into mean girls who snicker, laugh at or bully her. Plus, Cassie herself is deeply into both art and math, which is not a common way characters are portrayed in children's books. Both art and math are shown as ways to deal with troubles and grief, too. They help Cassie to accept the inevitable, as does her renewed friendship with Bailey. Her mother's life will end as it was, but hers will go on, as her mother would have certainly wished for her daughter.
(Note: I received an ARC of this book from Amazon Vine.)
April 8, 2020
I received this Ebook arc from Netgalley. The cover is what made me ask for this one. The story was done so well. The author has experience w/having a parent have Alzheimer's, & she wondered what it would be like to be a kid watching your parent lose their memory-b/c she was an adult when her own dad had the illness. While I’ve never dealt w/this personally, every detail seemed so real & accurate. There was no glossing over anything. You really get to feel the impact her mothers illness has on Cassie, our protagonist. Also, the affect it has on her dad & even her best friend & their relationship. It affects everything in her life. I really felt what she was feeling, which is high credit & respect to the author for that. I would feel almost mad at the mom too & then remember to be mad at the illness not at the mom...I feel so sorry that the author went through this, even later in life w/her dad-no matter what age it’s never easy-but it made her the perfect person to write a story like this, & I think it could help many people who are going through this or something similar even. I highly recommend this book. It was done SO well. Big emphasis on family, friendship, forgiveness, sense of belonging. It comes out April 28th!
April 13, 2021
What a book.
Cassies mum has alzheimers.
All she wants is for her mumnto remember her name.
A tear jerking book.
Cassies mum has alzheimers.
All she wants is for her mumnto remember her name.
A tear jerking book.
February 12, 2020
“I don’t like swimming in the ocean. It’s scary. All that space around you, it’s dark and unpredictable.” For Cassie this is her new normal since her mom has been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. What do you do when your mom can’t even remember your name? I have a friend whose mom went through this and my heart aches. Tears and more tears. This is a powerful story about real life.
April 30, 2020
My thanks to Netgalley and Bloomsbury for providing me an Advance Reading Copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. Sadly, my family is well acquainted with the emotional fallout due to Alzheimer’s disease. Nevertheless, we’ve not experienced the devastation of early onset Alzheimer’s disease (meaning a patient under the age of 65 — many people when they’re in their 40s and 50s). Cassie is not yet a teenager and yet she and her mom have practically reversed their familial roles — she must now take care of her mom when her dad is not around. This means setting aside her love of soccer (and possibly her best friend) so that she can focus on what’s most important. Cassie’s biggest hope is that one day, hopefully very soon, her mom will remember her name. Why can’t she just say it?
There are threads of memories that continue to come back to Cassie — from before her mom began to lose her memory. They’d visit the beach, her mother enjoyed dancing to Cindi Lauper’s music, and her parents were so very happy and in love. Therefore, when we jump back to the present, witnessing Cassie’s mom experience this degenerative illness, it leaves us feeling helpless. There’s a very real lack of control when you never know if you’ll be remembered or how your loved one will react in different situations. The pain was even more evident as Cassie and her father slowly realize they must move forward, almost as if her mother had died. However, it was so beautifully written and it’s definitely an underrepresented topic in middle grade literature. This title will publish on Tuesday, April 28th, 2020, so be sure to order a copy!
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
There are threads of memories that continue to come back to Cassie — from before her mom began to lose her memory. They’d visit the beach, her mother enjoyed dancing to Cindi Lauper’s music, and her parents were so very happy and in love. Therefore, when we jump back to the present, witnessing Cassie’s mom experience this degenerative illness, it leaves us feeling helpless. There’s a very real lack of control when you never know if you’ll be remembered or how your loved one will react in different situations. The pain was even more evident as Cassie and her father slowly realize they must move forward, almost as if her mother had died. However, it was so beautifully written and it’s definitely an underrepresented topic in middle grade literature. This title will publish on Tuesday, April 28th, 2020, so be sure to order a copy!
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
April 4, 2020
Cassie's mom suffers from early onset Alzheimer's disease, and is well past the stage of forgetting where she set her car keys or forgetting to turn off the stove; she cannot even remember Cassie's name anymore. As Cassie heartbreakingly tries to fulfill one last bucket list of her mother's - to swim with the dolphins - she slowly comes to terms with the fact that her mother's disease is irreversible and life must - and will - go on.
The author does a great job of capturing the "lost-ness" of Cassie's mother, but there seem to be so many threads of the story undeveloped: why, exactly did Cassie and her best friend, part? Where were other family members (grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.) in this? The ending just....stopped with what was probably going to happen with her mother (being placed in a long-term care facility), and Cassie, her dad and friend taking a trip to an unknown destination. The "meat" and structure of this story is solid, but the lack of editorial support is disappointing. This story needed a "Big Bang" and there simply wasn't one.
The author does a great job of capturing the "lost-ness" of Cassie's mother, but there seem to be so many threads of the story undeveloped: why, exactly did Cassie and her best friend, part? Where were other family members (grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.) in this? The ending just....stopped with what was probably going to happen with her mother (being placed in a long-term care facility), and Cassie, her dad and friend taking a trip to an unknown destination. The "meat" and structure of this story is solid, but the lack of editorial support is disappointing. This story needed a "Big Bang" and there simply wasn't one.
April 26, 2020
Imagine that your mom, the person you look up to the most and your best friend, becomes sick and you have to start taking care of her. Welcome to Cassie's world. Cassie and her parents used to go on grand adventures and her mom had an incredible bucket list of things she wanted to do. But when Cassie's mom began forgetting things and losing her focus, they got devastating news. Cassie's mom was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Cassie's world is turned upside down and she has to start taking care of her. Cassie has a hard time with her dad's new rules to keep her mom safe but the worst day of all was when her mom couldn't remember her name. Cassie vowed then and there to make the remaining time she had with her mom magical. Cassie made the mistake of pushing her best friend, Bailey, away when her mom got sick but the great thing about best friends is that they will always forgive you. So with the help of her best friend, Cassie sneaks her mom away on a bus three hours away from home so that her mom can swim with the dolphins. What will Cassie's dad do when he finds out what Cassie has done? And how will Cassie be able to handle her mom when she gets into a life and death situation? Did she make a huge mistake by trying to help her mom fulfill one thing on her bucket list? Read this heartwarming and heartbreaking story about the true meaning of family, friendship, and how to live life to the fullest while you can!
This book is one that really got to me. I can not even imagine having to watch a parent being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, but I sure couldn't imagine having to deal with it at a young age like Cassie. This book will tug at your heartstrings but it is also so full of hope because of the amazing people that she has in her life. I wasn't sure how this book would end but Sandy Stark-McGinnis did a fantastic job! Do not miss this endearing, heartwarming, incredible book!!
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This book is one that really got to me. I can not even imagine having to watch a parent being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, but I sure couldn't imagine having to deal with it at a young age like Cassie. This book will tug at your heartstrings but it is also so full of hope because of the amazing people that she has in her life. I wasn't sure how this book would end but Sandy Stark-McGinnis did a fantastic job! Do not miss this endearing, heartwarming, incredible book!!
Follow me:
Blog - Blazer Tales - https://blazertales.com/
Facebook - Laurie’s Library Place - https://www.facebook.com/LauriesLibra...
Instagram - laurieslibrary - https://www.instagram.com/laurieslibr...
Twitter - @laurieevans27 https://twitter.com/laurieevans27?lan...
Goodreads - Laurie Purser - https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/auburngirl2...
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCulD...
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-ev...
April 19, 2020
I absolutely adored this book. From the first chapter, I was in TEARS!! Omggggg!!! I was like, “how is this a middle grade book!?” But I am so glad I read it and plan to lend my copy to my god-daughter to read.
This is a story about a mother who has early onset Alzheimer’s Disease and her daughter who wants to help her accomplished something from her bucket list only to be able to have one last positive memory of her mom before time runs out.
Sound heavy!?
It was.
By the end of the book, you really come to understand how fast this young lady, Cassie, had to grow up, and how this disease (and caretaking) affects not only the person with this disorder, but the family unit as well. Life changed when you become a caregiver—I definitely know this in my personal life. You have to make sacrifices and that’s exactly what Cassie did when she found out her mom had Alzheimer’s.
I will say that I found in unbelievable that Cassie was able to pull off what she did in the book with her mom (🐬) and that NO ONE seemed to care that this child was taking care of her obviously “off” mom by herself, but I also gotta keep in mind that this book is written for kids. However, kids should also learn that Cassie’s situation is very unique and her father shouldn’t have let her take on this caretaking responsibility for as much as he did. That’s my two cents, however, I really loved this book—loved the family adventure, and loved the overall message this book had about love, hope, fear, and acceptance.
This is a story about a mother who has early onset Alzheimer’s Disease and her daughter who wants to help her accomplished something from her bucket list only to be able to have one last positive memory of her mom before time runs out.
Sound heavy!?
It was.
By the end of the book, you really come to understand how fast this young lady, Cassie, had to grow up, and how this disease (and caretaking) affects not only the person with this disorder, but the family unit as well. Life changed when you become a caregiver—I definitely know this in my personal life. You have to make sacrifices and that’s exactly what Cassie did when she found out her mom had Alzheimer’s.
I will say that I found in unbelievable that Cassie was able to pull off what she did in the book with her mom (🐬) and that NO ONE seemed to care that this child was taking care of her obviously “off” mom by herself, but I also gotta keep in mind that this book is written for kids. However, kids should also learn that Cassie’s situation is very unique and her father shouldn’t have let her take on this caretaking responsibility for as much as he did. That’s my two cents, however, I really loved this book—loved the family adventure, and loved the overall message this book had about love, hope, fear, and acceptance.
March 12, 2020
CWs:
In-depth exploration of degenerative illness
This book is both beautiful and sad. It's beauty does not negate its sadness and its sadness does nothing to negate his beauty.
It's about Cassie fighting to prove that her mother's diagnosis of Alzheimer's doesn't mean they should stop living their lives. It's about reconciling the fact that her mom's day-to-day life is drastically changing with the equally irrefutable fact that her mom is still a person with feelings, hopes, and dreams. While Cassie's dad lives in fear of his wife "causing a scene" or "acting strangely" in public, Cassie realizes that the time she has with her mother is precious and that they can still make memories together, even when facing the reality of her disease.
This story pulls no punches when it comes to reality of Alzheimer's disease, but it also explores how those effected can still hold hope and love in their hearts and find comfort in others. I was deeply moved by the complexity and depth of this story, and overall I'm grateful to the author for sharing her truth in such a beautiful way.
This book is both beautiful and sad. It's beauty does not negate its sadness and its sadness does nothing to negate his beauty.
It's about Cassie fighting to prove that her mother's diagnosis of Alzheimer's doesn't mean they should stop living their lives. It's about reconciling the fact that her mom's day-to-day life is drastically changing with the equally irrefutable fact that her mom is still a person with feelings, hopes, and dreams. While Cassie's dad lives in fear of his wife "causing a scene" or "acting strangely" in public, Cassie realizes that the time she has with her mother is precious and that they can still make memories together, even when facing the reality of her disease.
This story pulls no punches when it comes to reality of Alzheimer's disease, but it also explores how those effected can still hold hope and love in their hearts and find comfort in others. I was deeply moved by the complexity and depth of this story, and overall I'm grateful to the author for sharing her truth in such a beautiful way.
April 14, 2020
Summary:
From the acclaimed author of Extraordinary Birds, a powerful story about family, friendship, and the light that can be found even in the darkest of places.
Cassie's always looked up to her mom, a vibrant woman bursting with grand ideas. Together they planned to check off every dream on their think-big bucket list, no matter how far the adventures took them. The future seemed unlimited.
But then came the diagnosis, and Mom started to lose her memories. Even the ones Cassie thought she'd never forget. Even Cassie's name.
Cassie tries her hardest to keep Mom happy . . . to focus on math lessons and come up with art ideas that used to burst off her pen. But as Mom's memories dimmed, so did Cassie's inspiration. She's even pushed away Bailey, the one friend who could help make things okay.
So, Cassie decides to take action. It's time for one last adventure… even if it means taking a big risk to get there.
My Review:
Strong characters
Solid Plot
Interesting Inciting Incident
The story held my attention the entire time.
Had such powerful imagery
I highly recommend.
From the acclaimed author of Extraordinary Birds, a powerful story about family, friendship, and the light that can be found even in the darkest of places.
Cassie's always looked up to her mom, a vibrant woman bursting with grand ideas. Together they planned to check off every dream on their think-big bucket list, no matter how far the adventures took them. The future seemed unlimited.
But then came the diagnosis, and Mom started to lose her memories. Even the ones Cassie thought she'd never forget. Even Cassie's name.
Cassie tries her hardest to keep Mom happy . . . to focus on math lessons and come up with art ideas that used to burst off her pen. But as Mom's memories dimmed, so did Cassie's inspiration. She's even pushed away Bailey, the one friend who could help make things okay.
So, Cassie decides to take action. It's time for one last adventure… even if it means taking a big risk to get there.
My Review:
Strong characters
Solid Plot
Interesting Inciting Incident
The story held my attention the entire time.
Had such powerful imagery
I highly recommend.
April 10, 2020
As someone who went to school to be an elementary school teacher I LOVE reading middle grade books, so I was super excited when I received this ARC. The author of this book did a great job taking what can be a really hard situation for anyone to handle, let alone a child, and conveying the positives and negatives with grace. For anyone who has never met or dealt with someone with Alzheimer's this book gives an inside view of the disease and how it can affect the everyday life of a whole family. That being said, the negatives did not over power the positives, making the story perfect for young readers. I feel Cassie, the main character, is very relatable to many young children and is a great role model. I would recommend this book to anyone, children and adults alike. I would love to incorporate it as a read-aloud in a future classroom.
April 13, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley for this eARC. I was a big fan of Extraordinary Birds, and so was excited to read this book. Cassie's mom has early-onset Alzheimer's, and Cassie is learning how to deal with her new normal. It felt very similar to Song for a Whale in the fact that the middle grade protagonist is determined to fulfill a journey. The book was very sad and it felt a bit rushed to me; I would have liked some elements to be more fleshed out.
September 27, 2020
The well-done story of Cassie whose mom has been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimers. The sense of loss, the struggle to reconnect with her friend Bailey, and the dad's grief -- all beautifully rendered with a realistic ending. I love, too, that Cassie is good at math *and* art. Lots of evocative ocean, dolphin, and desert descriptions.
December 21, 2020
This "tragically beautiful" book was recommended (repeatedly) and then gifted to me by a voracious reader student. When he saw that I'd finished, he planted himself in front of me and asked, "So, how was the book?" :)
It was lovely. Thank you, sweet boy.
It was lovely. Thank you, sweet boy.
Read
October 23, 2020i feel
dishonest
pushing 'i'm finished!' when i read about a sentence of this guy
who have i become
dishonest
pushing 'i'm finished!' when i read about a sentence of this guy
who have i become
October 20, 2020
4.5 stars
Cassie's mom has early-onset Alzheimer's and can't remember Cassie's name.
This sensitive middle grade novel follows Cassie as she engages with her mom on the ever-changing terms of her illness. Unlike many books on grief and loss this book is not depressing, though there isn't much humor either. Cassie is youthfully wise and the story is full of tender sweetness and evocative imagery.
Cassie's mom has early-onset Alzheimer's and can't remember Cassie's name.
This sensitive middle grade novel follows Cassie as she engages with her mom on the ever-changing terms of her illness. Unlike many books on grief and loss this book is not depressing, though there isn't much humor either. Cassie is youthfully wise and the story is full of tender sweetness and evocative imagery.
December 29, 2019
Thank you to the author and publisher for an ARC of this book for #bookportage.
What a beautiful story about a young girl who is slowly losing her mother to early onset Alzeihmer's disease, and how she must comes to terms with the fact that life will continue to go on for her.
Cassie mom is not the same woman she was a short time ago. The progression of her Alzeihmer's disease makes her behavior unpredictable and her many of memories unreachable, but it's when she is unable to remember Cassie's name that it hurts the most. Cassie has withdrawn from her best friend, she has trouble math, and her artistic inspiration appears to have dried up. When Cassie realizes that her mom has a bucket list with one item on it that's still achievable, to swim with dolphins, Cassie is determined to make this dream come true for her. But her father isn't in favor of the idea, and his worries about the unknown cloud much of Cassie's enthusiasm. How can she help her mom have one last special experience all by herself?
This is a difficult book to read, because I wanted to hug Cassie and tell her it was going to be OK, even though it wasn't. It was sad, and yet as in all good middle grade novels, the vein of hope ran throughout the story. I loved watching Cassie toward the end of the novel as she passed into a different stage of dealing with her mother's illness, and I love her ability to meet her mom where she is and share many tender moments with her.
I know a lot of young readers who love "sad stories" will gravitate toward this book, and I look forward to placing it in their hands when it comes out in April.
What a beautiful story about a young girl who is slowly losing her mother to early onset Alzeihmer's disease, and how she must comes to terms with the fact that life will continue to go on for her.
Cassie mom is not the same woman she was a short time ago. The progression of her Alzeihmer's disease makes her behavior unpredictable and her many of memories unreachable, but it's when she is unable to remember Cassie's name that it hurts the most. Cassie has withdrawn from her best friend, she has trouble math, and her artistic inspiration appears to have dried up. When Cassie realizes that her mom has a bucket list with one item on it that's still achievable, to swim with dolphins, Cassie is determined to make this dream come true for her. But her father isn't in favor of the idea, and his worries about the unknown cloud much of Cassie's enthusiasm. How can she help her mom have one last special experience all by herself?
This is a difficult book to read, because I wanted to hug Cassie and tell her it was going to be OK, even though it wasn't. It was sad, and yet as in all good middle grade novels, the vein of hope ran throughout the story. I loved watching Cassie toward the end of the novel as she passed into a different stage of dealing with her mother's illness, and I love her ability to meet her mom where she is and share many tender moments with her.
I know a lot of young readers who love "sad stories" will gravitate toward this book, and I look forward to placing it in their hands when it comes out in April.
July 8, 2020
The Space Between Lost and Found by Sandy Stark-McGinnis, 206 pages. Bloomsbury, 2020. $17.
Content: G
BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Today is the day that Cassie’s Mom forgets Cassie’s name. And her doctors have told the family that once Mom loses a word, it may never come back. Last year she had her best friend, Bailey, to support her, but Cassie has withdrawn as her mother becomes more difficult to handle. It may be time for her mother to go to a full care facility. Cassie wants one last great memory to have of her mother, but her father is resistant to her idea. Cassie may only be a 5th grader, but she has tenacity.
Early onset Alzheimer’s is not a part of many young people’s experience. Stark-McGinnis manages to introduce the disease in a way that will intrigue readers. I also admire that while Cassie is rightly sad and a bit desperate, she is not mentally ill or neurotic about what is happening. The touch of Cassie and Bailey losing and then regaining their friendship is also very realistically drawn. Many good things to enjoy here.
Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
Content: G
BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Today is the day that Cassie’s Mom forgets Cassie’s name. And her doctors have told the family that once Mom loses a word, it may never come back. Last year she had her best friend, Bailey, to support her, but Cassie has withdrawn as her mother becomes more difficult to handle. It may be time for her mother to go to a full care facility. Cassie wants one last great memory to have of her mother, but her father is resistant to her idea. Cassie may only be a 5th grader, but she has tenacity.
Early onset Alzheimer’s is not a part of many young people’s experience. Stark-McGinnis manages to introduce the disease in a way that will intrigue readers. I also admire that while Cassie is rightly sad and a bit desperate, she is not mentally ill or neurotic about what is happening. The touch of Cassie and Bailey losing and then regaining their friendship is also very realistically drawn. Many good things to enjoy here.
Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
March 20, 2020
@Kidlitexchange
Thank you to @starkmcginnis and @bloomburypublishing for sharing an advance copy of The Space Between Lost and Found by Sandy Stark-McGinnis with the #kidlitexchange network. This book will be released April 28, 2020. All opinions are my own.
Cassie has always looked up to her mom. She is adventurous, mischievous, and good with numbers. Her mom has even created a bucket list of things to do in the next ten years which includes things like swimming with dolphins again, swimming the English Channel, and seeing the Northern Lights. All these dreams and life as Cassie knows it change when her mother is diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's. Now, Cassie is struggling to keep her mom happy, understand her dad's new restrictive rules, and keep her focus at school. Things get worse the day that her mom forgets her name, and Cassie decides that she has to do something. She turns to her mom's bucket list and takes it upon herself to make sure that her mom gets to experience at least one thing from this list before she disappears completely.
This is a powerful and heart-wrenching story about a girl who is attempting to find her own path while her mother is slowly slipping away and losing her memories. This is a pretty heavy topic for a children's novel, but it is handled deftly making it completely accessible to a younger reader. While many readers may not have experienced a situation similar to Cassie's they will still be able to relate to her raw emotions and the pain of slowly losing her mother. I loved the use of extended metaphors. The author uses comparisons between Cassie's mother's condition and the ocean and math in order to help the reader conceptualize the situation. This book explores big questions and reminds the reader that not every question has an answer. This is a story of friendship, family, and the memories that make us who we are and that will always be a part of us.
Thank you to @starkmcginnis and @bloomburypublishing for sharing an advance copy of The Space Between Lost and Found by Sandy Stark-McGinnis with the #kidlitexchange network. This book will be released April 28, 2020. All opinions are my own.
Cassie has always looked up to her mom. She is adventurous, mischievous, and good with numbers. Her mom has even created a bucket list of things to do in the next ten years which includes things like swimming with dolphins again, swimming the English Channel, and seeing the Northern Lights. All these dreams and life as Cassie knows it change when her mother is diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's. Now, Cassie is struggling to keep her mom happy, understand her dad's new restrictive rules, and keep her focus at school. Things get worse the day that her mom forgets her name, and Cassie decides that she has to do something. She turns to her mom's bucket list and takes it upon herself to make sure that her mom gets to experience at least one thing from this list before she disappears completely.
This is a powerful and heart-wrenching story about a girl who is attempting to find her own path while her mother is slowly slipping away and losing her memories. This is a pretty heavy topic for a children's novel, but it is handled deftly making it completely accessible to a younger reader. While many readers may not have experienced a situation similar to Cassie's they will still be able to relate to her raw emotions and the pain of slowly losing her mother. I loved the use of extended metaphors. The author uses comparisons between Cassie's mother's condition and the ocean and math in order to help the reader conceptualize the situation. This book explores big questions and reminds the reader that not every question has an answer. This is a story of friendship, family, and the memories that make us who we are and that will always be a part of us.
April 27, 2020
My mom, who had Altzheimer’s disease, died nine years ago, but those difficult years are still a fresh memory. It was so hard watching the caring, independent woman fade away. However, it is so much worse for Cassie, because she is just twelve years old and her mom, who is a vivacious woman with a courageous bucket list, has been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s.
This awful news means Cassie’s family must struggle to find a new normal. Her Dad’s objective is to keep her mom safe, while Cassie’s main objective is to keep her mom happy. However, in the process she pushes her best friend away and loses the inspiration for her artwork. Finally, the day her mom forget’s Cassie’s name, Cassie decides no matter what the danger involved, she must help her mom achieve at least one goal on her list.
This is a powerful story about courage, determination, families, friendship and love. It is about Cassie’s growth and bravery as she supports her mom and fights for what she is certain is best for her. It is about the fragile friendship between Cassie and her best friend and how that friendship, not only with Bailey, but also with Bailey’s family gives her the support and understanding she so badly needs. It is a story about Cassie’s dad’s love for both Cassie and her mom and his struggle to do what is best for both of them. It’s a story that will break your heart, but will offer hope in the end.
This story helps us to understand those diagnosed with Alzheimers, and how it affects everyone in the family. It helps us understand the frustration, the anger and the grief felt by all involved. It’s such an important story for MG and middle school students. Hopefully, few will experience a parent with this diagnosis, but unfortunately many will have grandparents who suffer from Alzheimers, and this book will give them both understanding and comfort. I hope this is added to both elementary and middle school libraries when it’s released on April 28th.
This awful news means Cassie’s family must struggle to find a new normal. Her Dad’s objective is to keep her mom safe, while Cassie’s main objective is to keep her mom happy. However, in the process she pushes her best friend away and loses the inspiration for her artwork. Finally, the day her mom forget’s Cassie’s name, Cassie decides no matter what the danger involved, she must help her mom achieve at least one goal on her list.
This is a powerful story about courage, determination, families, friendship and love. It is about Cassie’s growth and bravery as she supports her mom and fights for what she is certain is best for her. It is about the fragile friendship between Cassie and her best friend and how that friendship, not only with Bailey, but also with Bailey’s family gives her the support and understanding she so badly needs. It is a story about Cassie’s dad’s love for both Cassie and her mom and his struggle to do what is best for both of them. It’s a story that will break your heart, but will offer hope in the end.
This story helps us to understand those diagnosed with Alzheimers, and how it affects everyone in the family. It helps us understand the frustration, the anger and the grief felt by all involved. It’s such an important story for MG and middle school students. Hopefully, few will experience a parent with this diagnosis, but unfortunately many will have grandparents who suffer from Alzheimers, and this book will give them both understanding and comfort. I hope this is added to both elementary and middle school libraries when it’s released on April 28th.
May 8, 2020
*I received a free ARC of this novel from the publisher and netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
The Space Between Lost and Found was a book I expected to be emotional but I didn't realize just how much emotion you could put into a middle grade book. Sandy Stark-Mcginnis did an amazing job writing Cassie and showing the heartbreak a child goes through when their parent slowly starts to forget and having the forward in the beginning showing that she herself had gone through this as an adult made it so much more powerful. As an adult I can't imagine what it would be like for my mom to not remember my name so having Cassie live through that as a fifth grader? It was heartbreaking. But she's a girl that wants to make her mother remember her and live the life she wants to before she can't do it anymore. I also like that it showed what a child goes through socially when they close themselves off from the people around them because of what is happening at home. You don't expect other kids to understand what's happening let alone understand why their friend suddenly closes them out. I just feel like this book is the perfect way to explain to people what others go through when dealing with Alzheimers and how hard it is to slowly not be remembered.
Honestly I can't say enough how well written it was because as a twenty-nine year old I was emotional about Kim not remembering Cassie's name and her desire to just swim with dolphins. I would highly recommend this book and I will be giving a copy to my nieces.
The Space Between Lost and Found was a book I expected to be emotional but I didn't realize just how much emotion you could put into a middle grade book. Sandy Stark-Mcginnis did an amazing job writing Cassie and showing the heartbreak a child goes through when their parent slowly starts to forget and having the forward in the beginning showing that she herself had gone through this as an adult made it so much more powerful. As an adult I can't imagine what it would be like for my mom to not remember my name so having Cassie live through that as a fifth grader? It was heartbreaking. But she's a girl that wants to make her mother remember her and live the life she wants to before she can't do it anymore. I also like that it showed what a child goes through socially when they close themselves off from the people around them because of what is happening at home. You don't expect other kids to understand what's happening let alone understand why their friend suddenly closes them out. I just feel like this book is the perfect way to explain to people what others go through when dealing with Alzheimers and how hard it is to slowly not be remembered.
Honestly I can't say enough how well written it was because as a twenty-nine year old I was emotional about Kim not remembering Cassie's name and her desire to just swim with dolphins. I would highly recommend this book and I will be giving a copy to my nieces.
April 27, 2020
I finished reading The Space Between Lost and Found two days ago, and I’m still collecting my thoughts. It’s one of those “Wow!” books that just sits with you. It’s an emotionally intelligent read that looks at incremental loss in an honest and accessible way.
Cassie is mature for her age. The circumstances have forced her to grow up quickly in so many ways. And yet, all she wants is her mom to hold her; to call her by her name.
There’s a couple of interesting parent-child dynamics that play out in The Space Between Lost and Found. More and more, Cassie finds herself becoming the mother to her own mom. At the same time, Cassie’s dad doesn’t give Cassie the ability to make the decisions that come with being a parent. He’s focused on keeping Mom safe while Cassie is focused on quality experiences. In the end, they realize than not only are both important, but they are better when they coexist.
While The Space Between Lost and Found is specifically about Alzheimer’s disease, Cassie’s experiences and her feelings will ring true to any reader who has had a family member experience a physical or mental illness. The unpredictability of the changes and the toll they take on everyone are particularly tangible.
The Space Between Lost and Found is a beautiful read that will lead to good conversation between children and adults.
Cassie is mature for her age. The circumstances have forced her to grow up quickly in so many ways. And yet, all she wants is her mom to hold her; to call her by her name.
There’s a couple of interesting parent-child dynamics that play out in The Space Between Lost and Found. More and more, Cassie finds herself becoming the mother to her own mom. At the same time, Cassie’s dad doesn’t give Cassie the ability to make the decisions that come with being a parent. He’s focused on keeping Mom safe while Cassie is focused on quality experiences. In the end, they realize than not only are both important, but they are better when they coexist.
While The Space Between Lost and Found is specifically about Alzheimer’s disease, Cassie’s experiences and her feelings will ring true to any reader who has had a family member experience a physical or mental illness. The unpredictability of the changes and the toll they take on everyone are particularly tangible.
The Space Between Lost and Found is a beautiful read that will lead to good conversation between children and adults.
May 2, 2020
Thank you so much to Bloomsbury for the complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.
Oh my goodness, my heart hurts after finishing this book. It was so, so good but so sad at the same time. I’m still slowly dipping my toes into the middle grade genre but I absolutely loved all the representation in this book and how it’s main focus was a girl living and learning how to cope with her mom having early onset Alzheimer’s. The main character Cassie was so good with her mom even though it was killing her inside and outside characters were not as supportive as she was.
I don’t want readers to go into this book expecting a happy, uplifting book because it’s not, it’s actually really sad and hard hitting. But that’s what makes it so important especially for younger readers that maybe have a family member or a friend that’s going through what the main character is. The way the author represented Alzheimer’s was amazing, she showed the good and the ugly side of it but also gave a lot of great ways on how to cope with it and how to help.
This is definitely one of my favorite middle grade books and I have already bought my own copy so that I can reread this again and again. Sandy Stark-McGinnis, you did amazing.
Oh my goodness, my heart hurts after finishing this book. It was so, so good but so sad at the same time. I’m still slowly dipping my toes into the middle grade genre but I absolutely loved all the representation in this book and how it’s main focus was a girl living and learning how to cope with her mom having early onset Alzheimer’s. The main character Cassie was so good with her mom even though it was killing her inside and outside characters were not as supportive as she was.
I don’t want readers to go into this book expecting a happy, uplifting book because it’s not, it’s actually really sad and hard hitting. But that’s what makes it so important especially for younger readers that maybe have a family member or a friend that’s going through what the main character is. The way the author represented Alzheimer’s was amazing, she showed the good and the ugly side of it but also gave a lot of great ways on how to cope with it and how to help.
This is definitely one of my favorite middle grade books and I have already bought my own copy so that I can reread this again and again. Sandy Stark-McGinnis, you did amazing.
November 10, 2022
Favorite Quotes:
"So that's what we do, we remember, and we sing."
"Mom has taught me there is always a way, no matter how small, to make things better."
"In many ways, it reminds me of living with mom now. The world passes by, but then there's this person I love with a disease that makes the world slow down. I want to keep going forward as fast as possible, passing the hard parts, but I also want to keep everything still before it goes away."
Red Flags:
Alzheimer's, Depression, Illness, Dying
Genre:
Realistic Fiction
Summary:
This is a heartfelt, gentle story of a family battling with early onset Alzheimer's. Cassie, is a twelve year old girl who enjoys soccer, art and riding bikes with her best friend. Cassie loves going on adventures and spending time with her family. Cassie's mom begins to forget basic things, like where she put things, or how to make certain recipes, which quickly turns into short term memory loss. Cassie and her dad have different opinions on her mom's care, and abilities.
Review:
The author creates a soft, and compassionate tone throughout the book. It is slightly depressing, I would not recommend it for emotionally sensitive kids.
(recommended 6th-9th grade)
"So that's what we do, we remember, and we sing."
"Mom has taught me there is always a way, no matter how small, to make things better."
"In many ways, it reminds me of living with mom now. The world passes by, but then there's this person I love with a disease that makes the world slow down. I want to keep going forward as fast as possible, passing the hard parts, but I also want to keep everything still before it goes away."
Red Flags:
Alzheimer's, Depression, Illness, Dying
Genre:
Realistic Fiction
Summary:
This is a heartfelt, gentle story of a family battling with early onset Alzheimer's. Cassie, is a twelve year old girl who enjoys soccer, art and riding bikes with her best friend. Cassie loves going on adventures and spending time with her family. Cassie's mom begins to forget basic things, like where she put things, or how to make certain recipes, which quickly turns into short term memory loss. Cassie and her dad have different opinions on her mom's care, and abilities.
Review:
The author creates a soft, and compassionate tone throughout the book. It is slightly depressing, I would not recommend it for emotionally sensitive kids.
(recommended 6th-9th grade)
March 28, 2020
“The Space Between Lost and Found,” by Sandy Spark-McGinnis is such a beautiful, yet heartbreaking middle-grade book. Cassie is doing her best to help her father take care of her mother, who has been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Even with the help of a caretaker, it is a lot for Cassie and her Dad, and Cassie lets go of a lot of the activities she loves, and neglects relationships, especially with her best friend, in order to focus solely on her mother. Throughout the story, we see Cassie learn to let her best friend Bailey back in, and turn back to her artwork a bit. She does what she can to try to reach her mom, and learns to focus on the love and memories they had shared. Cassie and her dad face the challenges of the disease, and acknowledge what is to soon come with love and strength, while still recognizing how difficult it is and not shying away from big, heavy feelings.
This book deals with medical diagnosis, grief, parent loss, changing families, friendship, empathy and more. The author tells an important, sad story while weaving in so much love and beauty.
This book deals with medical diagnosis, grief, parent loss, changing families, friendship, empathy and more. The author tells an important, sad story while weaving in so much love and beauty.
May 26, 2020
A beautifully written new YA story, The Space Between Lost and Found, dives into the ocean of a family struggling with early onset Alzheimer's disease. Cassie hasn't really been able to find the words to explain to anyone how she's feeling about her mom's diagnosis. It impacts all of her relationships, her schoolwork, it even invades her thoughts during math class. She can't escape it but she also can't describe it. She doesn't even feel like she can draw it, even though she knows she is a talented artist.
The Space Between Lost and Found is incredibly relatable. Even more than that- it gives you perspective and empathy. You never know when you're interacting with someone else, if their world has stopped turning. Cassie's had, and even though she was keeping everyone at arms length, she needed help moving forward again.
This was a quick and enveloping read. The story made me tear up in so many places, but it also had an inherent warmth to it and I finished the book smiling. I hope you do too, and that it prompts you to be kinder than necessary in your interactions after reading it.
The Space Between Lost and Found is incredibly relatable. Even more than that- it gives you perspective and empathy. You never know when you're interacting with someone else, if their world has stopped turning. Cassie's had, and even though she was keeping everyone at arms length, she needed help moving forward again.
This was a quick and enveloping read. The story made me tear up in so many places, but it also had an inherent warmth to it and I finished the book smiling. I hope you do too, and that it prompts you to be kinder than necessary in your interactions after reading it.
November 24, 2020
I really wanted to like this book, but it really fell short. The first two chapter were fantastic, especially the flashback. But after that everything felt like a rough draft to the actual novel. The characters were not very dynamic or well developed and there wasn’t a lot there to sink into and feel connected. I did like Cassie and her friendship with Bailey, even though that was roughly sketched as well.
I think the author missed a great opportunity to turn this into a graphic novel. It’s just rough, but the story is there and I could see it play out beautifully in pictures.
The book is a very quick light read, and a little emotional in places, though the impact wasn’t fully felt as it should have been. The part where Cassie takes her Mom to San Diego was just a bust for me. It lacked the climax and excitement.
Overall it’s a good book, a wonderful idea (my MIL is currently living with Alzheimer’s, so I did feel some understanding and connection). The book was just flat and didn’t pull me in. Would have been wonderful if it had been a graphic novel, it could have filled in what the writing lacked.
I think the author missed a great opportunity to turn this into a graphic novel. It’s just rough, but the story is there and I could see it play out beautifully in pictures.
The book is a very quick light read, and a little emotional in places, though the impact wasn’t fully felt as it should have been. The part where Cassie takes her Mom to San Diego was just a bust for me. It lacked the climax and excitement.
Overall it’s a good book, a wonderful idea (my MIL is currently living with Alzheimer’s, so I did feel some understanding and connection). The book was just flat and didn’t pull me in. Would have been wonderful if it had been a graphic novel, it could have filled in what the writing lacked.
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