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Blue Skies
This novel tells the story of ten-year-old Glory Bea as she prepares for a miracle of her very own—her father’s return home.
Glory Bea Bennett knows that miracles happen in Gladiola, Texas, population 3,421. After all, her grandmother—the best matchmaker in the whole county—is responsible for thirty-nine of them.
Now, Glory Bea needs a miracle of her own.
The war ended three years ago, but Glory Bea’s father never returned home from the front in France. Glory Bea understands what Mama and Grams and Grandpa say—that Daddy died a hero on Omaha Beach—yet deep down in her heart, she believes Daddy is still out there.
When the Gladiola Gazette reports that one of the boxcars from the Merci Train (the “thank you” train)—a train filled with gifts of gratitude from the people of France—will be stopping in Gladiola, she just knows daddy will be its surprise cargo.
But miracles, like people, are always changing, until at last they find their way home.
Glory Bea Bennett knows that miracles happen in Gladiola, Texas, population 3,421. After all, her grandmother—the best matchmaker in the whole county—is responsible for thirty-nine of them.
Now, Glory Bea needs a miracle of her own.
The war ended three years ago, but Glory Bea’s father never returned home from the front in France. Glory Bea understands what Mama and Grams and Grandpa say—that Daddy died a hero on Omaha Beach—yet deep down in her heart, she believes Daddy is still out there.
When the Gladiola Gazette reports that one of the boxcars from the Merci Train (the “thank you” train)—a train filled with gifts of gratitude from the people of France—will be stopping in Gladiola, she just knows daddy will be its surprise cargo.
But miracles, like people, are always changing, until at last they find their way home.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published March 1, 2020
17 people are currently reading
1730 people want to read
About the author
Anne Bustard
7 books77 followersBorn and raised in Hawaii, with a few years in California sandwiched in between, Anne Bustard moved to Texas to attend college and stayed. A former elementary school teacher and then bookseller, she co-owned Toad Hall Children's Bookstore in Austin, Texas. Her innovative summer writing program for children earned her the Lucile Micheels Pannell Award.
After selling her interest in the bookstore, Anne began teaching in the College of Education at the University of Texas at Austin. There she received a Texas Excellence Teaching Award for her work.
Anne's first children's book, T IS FOR TEXAS (Voyageur Press) has been a popular seller. She has also written numerous articles for the MAILBOX MAGAZINE group featuring classroom connections to children's literature.
BUDDY: THE STORY OF BUDDY HOLLY (A Paula Wiseman Book/Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers) is her most recent publication.
Anne presents at local, state and national conferences.
Today, Anne Bustard lives and writes in Austin, Texas.
After selling her interest in the bookstore, Anne began teaching in the College of Education at the University of Texas at Austin. There she received a Texas Excellence Teaching Award for her work.
Anne's first children's book, T IS FOR TEXAS (Voyageur Press) has been a popular seller. She has also written numerous articles for the MAILBOX MAGAZINE group featuring classroom connections to children's literature.
BUDDY: THE STORY OF BUDDY HOLLY (A Paula Wiseman Book/Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers) is her most recent publication.
Anne presents at local, state and national conferences.
Today, Anne Bustard lives and writes in Austin, Texas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
March 10, 2020
This is such a slice of life for small-town Texas in the days after WW II. When I finished, "The Yellow Rose of Texas" was on my mind. Glory Bea Bennett is eleven years old and her daddy is MIA after Omaha Beach. Glory Bea is certain that her daddy is just lost, not dead. As the famous Gratitude Train makes its way to her little town of Gladiola, Texas, she is certain her daddy will be the promised surprise guest. Throughout the book, we live life with Glory Bea and her family. They go to church, enjoy sodas at the drugstore, put together a parade for Mercy Train Day, and so much more. It was a refreshing change from modern life to go back to a party line and see Grandma Bennett in all her matchmaking glory. So many passages in the book capture the heart and hope-filled flavor of Texas in that time period. I loved it! And, that cover!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2020
I was given a free copy of this book through the Goodreads giveaway program. This does not in any way affect my opinion. I try to express only my most honest opinion in a spoiler-free way. Unfortunately, there is still always a risk of slight spoilers despite my best efforts. If you feel something in my review is a spoiler please let me know. Thank you.
It is 1949 and 10-year-old Glory Bea's daddy was lost to the war years ago, but she has never given up hope that he could still come home. With the Merci Train coming to her hometown right around Valentine's Day, she strongly believes that that will be the day her daddy returns home and surprises them all. But now an old friend of her fathers is in town and here to stay and spending FAR to much time with her mama and she doesn't' like that at all.
I really enjoyed this book. I'm obviously not the targeted audience, but it was an enjoyable book. It says on the back of the book that it is meant for children ages 8-12. I could see my 13-year-old niece enjoying this book. She likes books that take place around the WWII period. It was a quick read but there was a lot to love. After the first couple of chapters, I knew this book was going to turn out really happy or really sad. I do have to say though that this book does an excellent job of dealing with the emotional parts. It does make to light of it so that the child that reads it can understand the seriousness of it but at the same time doesn't dwell too long on the sad stuff, making it an appropriate book for the age range. My daughter is just coming into this age range and I will be keeping an eye on future works by this author.
It is 1949 and 10-year-old Glory Bea's daddy was lost to the war years ago, but she has never given up hope that he could still come home. With the Merci Train coming to her hometown right around Valentine's Day, she strongly believes that that will be the day her daddy returns home and surprises them all. But now an old friend of her fathers is in town and here to stay and spending FAR to much time with her mama and she doesn't' like that at all.
I really enjoyed this book. I'm obviously not the targeted audience, but it was an enjoyable book. It says on the back of the book that it is meant for children ages 8-12. I could see my 13-year-old niece enjoying this book. She likes books that take place around the WWII period. It was a quick read but there was a lot to love. After the first couple of chapters, I knew this book was going to turn out really happy or really sad. I do have to say though that this book does an excellent job of dealing with the emotional parts. It does make to light of it so that the child that reads it can understand the seriousness of it but at the same time doesn't dwell too long on the sad stuff, making it an appropriate book for the age range. My daughter is just coming into this age range and I will be keeping an eye on future works by this author.
March 20, 2022
Your heart will break for Glory Bea who refuses to lose hope that her Daddy will return home from France three years after the end of World War II. Now the Merci Train, a "thank you" train from France is coming through Glory's small Texas town. Could it happen that her Dad will be on the train? Could Glory Bea be right that her Daddy is waiting for the right moment to surprise her and her mother? Author Anne Bustard's ending was perfect; it was my favorite part of the whole story.
April 3, 2020
Beautiful, emotional and real. As hopeful and comforting as a warm hug from a friend after a heartbreak. Unforgettable!
Highly recommend!
Highly recommend!
March 21, 2020
Blue Skies by Anne Bustard is a coming-of-age story about an 10-year old girl who struggles to cope with the loss of her father who never returned from the war in France over 3-years ago. Her family tells her he died on Omaha Beach, but Glory Bea refuses to give up hope. With her loving grandparents and mama by her side, Glory Bea is hoping one day her father will return and make her family complete once again. From trying to become a professional matchmaker to keeping her mama and her daddy's best friend from falling in love, Glory Bea has her work cut out for her. But, through it all are her good friends Ben and Ruby Jane, who never once let her give up hope or expecting her miracle.
Bustard does a wonderful job bringing Glory Bea's character to life as a young girl from a small Texas town who has to deal with a secret hope that her father may return on a train coming soon to her town. No one expects this but Glory Bea, but the hope of a little girl expecting to see her daddy on that train is palpable. Her relationships between her friends Ben and Ruby Jane are heartwarming and accurate for children of their age; including childhood crushes, unrequited love, and the unexpected.
The story is written through the eyes of Glory Bea and you can see the growth of her character throughout the story. Bustard does an excellent job giving us that small-town Texas feel with all the polite manners and courtesies of the time period. You certainly hope for Glory Bea's and her miracle by the end of the story. Middle-grade readers dealing with similar emotions or situations will relate to Glory Bea and even her friends Ben and Ruby Jane!
Blue Skies is a heartwarming story that will keep your rooting for all the characters and their own happy endings! I couldn't put it down! I had to see what happened in the end! A great book for your middle-grade child and/or library!
Bustard does a wonderful job bringing Glory Bea's character to life as a young girl from a small Texas town who has to deal with a secret hope that her father may return on a train coming soon to her town. No one expects this but Glory Bea, but the hope of a little girl expecting to see her daddy on that train is palpable. Her relationships between her friends Ben and Ruby Jane are heartwarming and accurate for children of their age; including childhood crushes, unrequited love, and the unexpected.
The story is written through the eyes of Glory Bea and you can see the growth of her character throughout the story. Bustard does an excellent job giving us that small-town Texas feel with all the polite manners and courtesies of the time period. You certainly hope for Glory Bea's and her miracle by the end of the story. Middle-grade readers dealing with similar emotions or situations will relate to Glory Bea and even her friends Ben and Ruby Jane!
Blue Skies is a heartwarming story that will keep your rooting for all the characters and their own happy endings! I couldn't put it down! I had to see what happened in the end! A great book for your middle-grade child and/or library!
September 23, 2019
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
All. The. Feels. What an absolutely precious, heartwrenching story! Beautifully written characters make you feel instantly connected to the story.
Glory Bea has been waiting for her father to return from the war in France for three long years. All of a sudden his friend from the service shows up and everything begins to change...or is Glory Bea just now beginning to understand what others have known all along?
All. The. Feels. What an absolutely precious, heartwrenching story! Beautifully written characters make you feel instantly connected to the story.
Glory Bea has been waiting for her father to return from the war in France for three long years. All of a sudden his friend from the service shows up and everything begins to change...or is Glory Bea just now beginning to understand what others have known all along?
December 23, 2019
Soooo sad but soooo gooood
March 18, 2020
I was instantly drawn into Blue Skies by the whimsically gorgeous cover art and premise. I was unprepared, however, for just how much the book would tug at my heartstrings. World War 2 stories have always resonated with me deeply, thanks to growing up hearing the experiences shared by my grandma. Grandma was an army nurse in both England and France during the War. She often told stories about the people she met in France, the songs they sang while overseas, and the horror of what was left of France after the Nazi's were pushed back. And Grandma especially loved sharing stories about her "boys," the soldiers wounded in battle, and the ones who didn't make it home.
Blue Skies is the story of Glory Bea, a precocious eleven-year-old girl whose daddy never returned from the war. Blue Skies was the song her daddy sang every morning, and just how she pictures the day when he finally makes his way back to her. Her mother and grandparents do their best to move on with their lives, though they keep Daddy's place at the table and haven't moved his things one single inch. Everything is ready for his return, and Glory Bea is convinced this will happen the day of the Merci Train parade. Until Daddy's best friend in the army, Randall Horton arrives with his songs, charm, and unwelcome ability to make Mama smile again. Change comes to Glory Bea's life with Mr. Horton and the Merci Train, whether she's ready for it or not.
It’s impossible not to love Glory Bea and her unwavering faith in miracles. You want her dreams to come true, no matter how unlikely. As with most middle-grade fiction, this is as much a coming of age as it's about overcoming impossible odds. Glory Bea’s wishes are only part of the charm, and author Anne Bustard’s talent for drawing you into the world of her characters is this novel’s greatest strength. Other favorite characters include Glory Bea’s neighbor and current victim of her matchmaking aspirations, Ben Truman. After having grown up watching her grandmother make perfect matches for much of the town, our heroine is convinced she has the same talent. Glory Bea's attempts to pair Ben with best friend, Ruby Jane, is hilarious and endearing.
Though Blue Skies takes place in the late forties, there is a timeless feel in the way each character processes the grief of the war and seeks a new beginning. I confess to feeling almost tongue-tied attempting to convey all the little things I love about Blue Skies. I love the history the author included on the Merci Train, and all the tiny details of life after the war. I love how I couldn’t seem to stop reading until I learned if Glory Bea’s greatest miracle would come true. Blue Skies may be a quick read, but it carries surprising weight and poignancy through its themes. This is Glory Bea's story as much as it is ours as a country and a love letter to all the soldiers who did and didn’t come home.
**I was provided with a copy of Blue Skies by the publisher and this is my voluntary and honest review.**
Blue Skies is the story of Glory Bea, a precocious eleven-year-old girl whose daddy never returned from the war. Blue Skies was the song her daddy sang every morning, and just how she pictures the day when he finally makes his way back to her. Her mother and grandparents do their best to move on with their lives, though they keep Daddy's place at the table and haven't moved his things one single inch. Everything is ready for his return, and Glory Bea is convinced this will happen the day of the Merci Train parade. Until Daddy's best friend in the army, Randall Horton arrives with his songs, charm, and unwelcome ability to make Mama smile again. Change comes to Glory Bea's life with Mr. Horton and the Merci Train, whether she's ready for it or not.
It’s impossible not to love Glory Bea and her unwavering faith in miracles. You want her dreams to come true, no matter how unlikely. As with most middle-grade fiction, this is as much a coming of age as it's about overcoming impossible odds. Glory Bea’s wishes are only part of the charm, and author Anne Bustard’s talent for drawing you into the world of her characters is this novel’s greatest strength. Other favorite characters include Glory Bea’s neighbor and current victim of her matchmaking aspirations, Ben Truman. After having grown up watching her grandmother make perfect matches for much of the town, our heroine is convinced she has the same talent. Glory Bea's attempts to pair Ben with best friend, Ruby Jane, is hilarious and endearing.
Though Blue Skies takes place in the late forties, there is a timeless feel in the way each character processes the grief of the war and seeks a new beginning. I confess to feeling almost tongue-tied attempting to convey all the little things I love about Blue Skies. I love the history the author included on the Merci Train, and all the tiny details of life after the war. I love how I couldn’t seem to stop reading until I learned if Glory Bea’s greatest miracle would come true. Blue Skies may be a quick read, but it carries surprising weight and poignancy through its themes. This is Glory Bea's story as much as it is ours as a country and a love letter to all the soldiers who did and didn’t come home.
**I was provided with a copy of Blue Skies by the publisher and this is my voluntary and honest review.**
March 11, 2020
This book was received as an ARC from Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing - Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
I could not get enough of this book and the message that was carried throughout the book. Glory Bea Bennett is very inspiring to all people with her grandmother being the biggest miracle worker and with the war ending and Glory Bea's father not returning, it is easy for Glory Bea to be scared and negative about the whole situation but it is the image and representation of blue skies that keeps her personality shining. Glory Bea knows her father is still out there and miracles work in their own magical ways. I could not help but fall in love with the optimism of Glory Bea and there were many parts of the book where I couldn't hold back my tears. I know this will be a book in every classroom and even based on a whole unit that children should learn. I know our teachers and children will love this book.
We will consider adding this title to our JFiction collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
I could not get enough of this book and the message that was carried throughout the book. Glory Bea Bennett is very inspiring to all people with her grandmother being the biggest miracle worker and with the war ending and Glory Bea's father not returning, it is easy for Glory Bea to be scared and negative about the whole situation but it is the image and representation of blue skies that keeps her personality shining. Glory Bea knows her father is still out there and miracles work in their own magical ways. I could not help but fall in love with the optimism of Glory Bea and there were many parts of the book where I couldn't hold back my tears. I know this will be a book in every classroom and even based on a whole unit that children should learn. I know our teachers and children will love this book.
We will consider adding this title to our JFiction collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
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November 11, 2020Happy Veteran's Day! Here is a book that gives you the perspective of a young girl with a daddy who was lost on Omaha Beach:
This is such a slice of life for small-town Texas in the days after WW II. When I finished, "The Yellow Rose of Texas" was on my mind. Glory Bea Bennett is eleven years old and her daddy is MIA after Omaha Beach. Glory Bea is certain that her daddy is just lost, not dead. As the famous Gratitude Train makes its way to her little town of Gladiola, Texas, she is certain her daddy will be the promised surprise guest. Throughout the book, we live life with Glory Bea and her family. They go to church, enjoy sodas at the drugstore, put together a parade for Mercy Train Day, and so much more. It was a refreshing change from modern life to go back to a party line and see Grandma Bennett in all her matchmaking glory. So many passages in the book capture the heart and hope-filled flavor of Texas in that time period. I loved it! And, that cover! * Review by Darla from Red Bridge*
This is such a slice of life for small-town Texas in the days after WW II. When I finished, "The Yellow Rose of Texas" was on my mind. Glory Bea Bennett is eleven years old and her daddy is MIA after Omaha Beach. Glory Bea is certain that her daddy is just lost, not dead. As the famous Gratitude Train makes its way to her little town of Gladiola, Texas, she is certain her daddy will be the promised surprise guest. Throughout the book, we live life with Glory Bea and her family. They go to church, enjoy sodas at the drugstore, put together a parade for Mercy Train Day, and so much more. It was a refreshing change from modern life to go back to a party line and see Grandma Bennett in all her matchmaking glory. So many passages in the book capture the heart and hope-filled flavor of Texas in that time period. I loved it! And, that cover! * Review by Darla from Red Bridge*
April 23, 2020
It's 1948 and the war has been over for three years, but not for 11-year-old Glory Bea Bennett. She's been hoping for a miracle - that her beloved MIA father, who was last seen alive storming Omaha Beach during the Normandy invasion on June 6, 1944 and is now presumed dead, will someday still come home. And it looks like Glory Bea is going to get her miracle...at least that's what she thinks.
Grateful to the United States for helping to liberate France from Nazi occupation, the French people have are sending 49 boxcars* on what is called the Merci Train, all filled with gifts for the United States. And one of those boxcars is going to travel through and briefly stop at Glory Bea's small town of Gladiola, Texas. Slowly, as the town begins to prepare a celebration for the train's arrival, Glory Bea allows herself to become more and more convinced that her dad will be on that boxcar stopping on Valentines Day, which also happens to be her parent's wedding anniversary. She's sure just wants to surprise her and her mom. After all, why else would the Merci Train stop in Gladiola, and wouldn't it be just like her dad to plan a big surprise like that? she thinks.
There's only one problem - now her dad's best Army buddy, Randall Horton, has arrived in town to visit with the Bennett family and Glory Bea is not happy about the fact that he is spending a lot of time with her mother, laughing, going out, and just enjoying each other's company. Angry and resentful, it seems the more Glory Bea tries to make his visit unpleasant, the longer Randall stays.
Glory Bea keeps her idea about her dad's return to herself, only telling her best friend Ruby Jane about it. Meanwhile, she begins to prepare for his homecoming, but now it looks like Randall is planning to settle down in Gladiola. Well, once her dad is home, her mother will lose all interest in Randall.
But when the Merci Train finally arrives in Gladiola, Glory Bea's miracle is definitely not what she expected.
Blue Skies is an interesting work of historical fiction that really shows the extent to which WWII impacted the lives of those who lived through it long after the fighting ended and that finally by 1949, people were beginning to finally move on with their lives. And while I loved the idea of bringing the Merci Train into the story, I did have a hard time with Glory Bea's holding on to the idea her dad was still alive but just hadn't come home yet for such a long time.
That being said, I still really liked this novel. There's so much going on beside Glory Bea's obsession. Her grandmother is a matchmaker, and she's trying to follow in her footsteps matching Ruby Jane and neighbor Ben Truman, and totally missing Ben's real crush.
An important side story in the book is that of Ben's father who returned from the war a changed man, suffering from PTSD. When Randell Horton arrives in town, and goes to visit Mr. Truman, just being able to talk about the war with someone who was there finally begins his healing, but there's no doubt he has a long road ahead of him.
One of the things I really enjoy when reading historical fiction are the little everyday things that are included, giving the reader a real sense of what life was life for kids back then. For example, the way movies play such a big part in the lives of Glory Bea and Ruby Jane, and the tradition of going to the soda fountain for Dr. Pepper floats afterwards.
Bustard has also really captured the patriotic spirit of places like Gladiola after the war. It's a small, friendly community where everyone knows and look out for each other. This is very evident in the parade that is being planned for the Merci Train's stop there or when Glory Bea and Ben hop on a train without a ticket.
I have to admit that at first I found Glory Bea an annoying, self-centered character, but as I read on I began to feel more empathy for her. I can understand the difficulty of losing a parent that you feel so attached to as a child. It happened to me, and it happened to my Kiddo, and life is hard for a long time. Coming to terms with loss can be a hard, sad journey, but Bustard allows Glory Bea to have her journey her way.
If you are looking for a compelling middle grade book about WWII and its aftermath, you can't go wrong with Blue Skies.
This book is recommended for readers age 9+
This book was gratefully received from the publisher, Simon & Schuster
Grateful to the United States for helping to liberate France from Nazi occupation, the French people have are sending 49 boxcars* on what is called the Merci Train, all filled with gifts for the United States. And one of those boxcars is going to travel through and briefly stop at Glory Bea's small town of Gladiola, Texas. Slowly, as the town begins to prepare a celebration for the train's arrival, Glory Bea allows herself to become more and more convinced that her dad will be on that boxcar stopping on Valentines Day, which also happens to be her parent's wedding anniversary. She's sure just wants to surprise her and her mom. After all, why else would the Merci Train stop in Gladiola, and wouldn't it be just like her dad to plan a big surprise like that? she thinks.
There's only one problem - now her dad's best Army buddy, Randall Horton, has arrived in town to visit with the Bennett family and Glory Bea is not happy about the fact that he is spending a lot of time with her mother, laughing, going out, and just enjoying each other's company. Angry and resentful, it seems the more Glory Bea tries to make his visit unpleasant, the longer Randall stays.
Glory Bea keeps her idea about her dad's return to herself, only telling her best friend Ruby Jane about it. Meanwhile, she begins to prepare for his homecoming, but now it looks like Randall is planning to settle down in Gladiola. Well, once her dad is home, her mother will lose all interest in Randall.
But when the Merci Train finally arrives in Gladiola, Glory Bea's miracle is definitely not what she expected.
Blue Skies is an interesting work of historical fiction that really shows the extent to which WWII impacted the lives of those who lived through it long after the fighting ended and that finally by 1949, people were beginning to finally move on with their lives. And while I loved the idea of bringing the Merci Train into the story, I did have a hard time with Glory Bea's holding on to the idea her dad was still alive but just hadn't come home yet for such a long time.
That being said, I still really liked this novel. There's so much going on beside Glory Bea's obsession. Her grandmother is a matchmaker, and she's trying to follow in her footsteps matching Ruby Jane and neighbor Ben Truman, and totally missing Ben's real crush.
An important side story in the book is that of Ben's father who returned from the war a changed man, suffering from PTSD. When Randell Horton arrives in town, and goes to visit Mr. Truman, just being able to talk about the war with someone who was there finally begins his healing, but there's no doubt he has a long road ahead of him.
One of the things I really enjoy when reading historical fiction are the little everyday things that are included, giving the reader a real sense of what life was life for kids back then. For example, the way movies play such a big part in the lives of Glory Bea and Ruby Jane, and the tradition of going to the soda fountain for Dr. Pepper floats afterwards.
Bustard has also really captured the patriotic spirit of places like Gladiola after the war. It's a small, friendly community where everyone knows and look out for each other. This is very evident in the parade that is being planned for the Merci Train's stop there or when Glory Bea and Ben hop on a train without a ticket.
I have to admit that at first I found Glory Bea an annoying, self-centered character, but as I read on I began to feel more empathy for her. I can understand the difficulty of losing a parent that you feel so attached to as a child. It happened to me, and it happened to my Kiddo, and life is hard for a long time. Coming to terms with loss can be a hard, sad journey, but Bustard allows Glory Bea to have her journey her way.
If you are looking for a compelling middle grade book about WWII and its aftermath, you can't go wrong with Blue Skies.
This book is recommended for readers age 9+
This book was gratefully received from the publisher, Simon & Schuster
June 20, 2022
My Rating: 4.45 Stars
Glory Bea, an eleven-year-old girl living in Gladiola, Texas, knows her dad is coming home. World War II may have ended three years ago, but Glory Bea believes that miracles happen and that her father is still out there, probably with serious amnesia. When France's real-life Merci Train makes its way across America to thank the Americans for their help during World War II, Glory Bea is convinced the train will contain the biggest surprise of all: her dad. And he'd better hurry up too, since Mom seems to be falling in love with someone new.
Things I Liked:
The best part of this book was Anne Bustard's writing style. My, oh my, it was charming! And, having grown up in a tiny little town myself, I thought Bustard's portrayal of a small town community was spot on. I was also blown away by Bustard's attention to detail. She did her research on life in the late 40s, down to the smallest of details. And the ending? The ending was beautiful. I needed a Kleenex or two.
Things I Liked Less:
Let's talk about Glory Bea's really naughty behavior towards her mom's new man friend. Not only did Glory Bea do a lot of really naughty things, but she also didn't suffer any real consequences for her bad behavior. I also wasn't convinced that an eleven-year-old girl would believe that her MIA father would suddenly reappear on the Merci Train. She seemed a little too old to be thinking up such a fantastic scenario.
Overall, this book was a great pleasure to read. I'm glad I read it and look forward to more books from Anne Buster!
Book Alikes: Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot
Although the similarities between these two books is a little bit of a stretch, both feature girls, gifts, and World War II.
Glory Bea, an eleven-year-old girl living in Gladiola, Texas, knows her dad is coming home. World War II may have ended three years ago, but Glory Bea believes that miracles happen and that her father is still out there, probably with serious amnesia. When France's real-life Merci Train makes its way across America to thank the Americans for their help during World War II, Glory Bea is convinced the train will contain the biggest surprise of all: her dad. And he'd better hurry up too, since Mom seems to be falling in love with someone new.
Things I Liked:
The best part of this book was Anne Bustard's writing style. My, oh my, it was charming! And, having grown up in a tiny little town myself, I thought Bustard's portrayal of a small town community was spot on. I was also blown away by Bustard's attention to detail. She did her research on life in the late 40s, down to the smallest of details. And the ending? The ending was beautiful. I needed a Kleenex or two.
Things I Liked Less:
Let's talk about Glory Bea's really naughty behavior towards her mom's new man friend. Not only did Glory Bea do a lot of really naughty things, but she also didn't suffer any real consequences for her bad behavior. I also wasn't convinced that an eleven-year-old girl would believe that her MIA father would suddenly reappear on the Merci Train. She seemed a little too old to be thinking up such a fantastic scenario.
Overall, this book was a great pleasure to read. I'm glad I read it and look forward to more books from Anne Buster!
Book Alikes: Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot
Although the similarities between these two books is a little bit of a stretch, both feature girls, gifts, and World War II.
May 14, 2020
I’m giving this book a 3 star despite having me tear up a little at the end, there was no shedding of the tears. I was able to keep it in but it was sweet.
This book felt very white to me lol and I get I should know that going in with what the story’s about. But it felt overly wholesome, low risk and at times a bit bland. I liked Glory Brea as a character and her relationships with her friends and her family.
The writing was okay, there were parts I really enjoyed and then moments where I felt parts were skipped over. I was left feeling confused because the author doesn’t give context to character’s reactions and breezes over occurrences that should’ve had a bigger impact to the story. I would’ve liked a little more development with instances in the plot. It felt rushed which I understand it’s made for children but even a few more sentences to important moments would’ve been enough. We miss a lot of the character’s thoughts and feelings on moments that should’ve been impactful and instead it quickly moves on, minimizing what could have been powerful pieces the plot.
I feel weird reading books that contain religion even though it brings me to a nostalgia when I went to church (even though lol I don’t believe any more) but I’m going to try and say it was there for the time period. Idkkkkk I wanted more realism too overall I suppose but it was nice for what it was.
This book felt very white to me lol and I get I should know that going in with what the story’s about. But it felt overly wholesome, low risk and at times a bit bland. I liked Glory Brea as a character and her relationships with her friends and her family.
The writing was okay, there were parts I really enjoyed and then moments where I felt parts were skipped over. I was left feeling confused because the author doesn’t give context to character’s reactions and breezes over occurrences that should’ve had a bigger impact to the story. I would’ve liked a little more development with instances in the plot. It felt rushed which I understand it’s made for children but even a few more sentences to important moments would’ve been enough. We miss a lot of the character’s thoughts and feelings on moments that should’ve been impactful and instead it quickly moves on, minimizing what could have been powerful pieces the plot.
I feel weird reading books that contain religion even though it brings me to a nostalgia when I went to church (even though lol I don’t believe any more) but I’m going to try and say it was there for the time period. Idkkkkk I wanted more realism too overall I suppose but it was nice for what it was.
January 10, 2020
Glory Bea is sure that the Merci Train is bringing her daddy home from the war-- but her family seems to be moving on. Don't they know he'll be back soon? Randall, daddy's best friend from the front lines, has come to visit, and doesn't seem to be leaving town anytime soon. Meanwhile, Glory Bea is also testing her skills as a matchmaker, like her grandmother is known for, but doesn't seem to have as much luck as she does. Blue Skies is a bittersweet small town story of family and love that goes on forever.
March 24, 2020
I really commend Bustard’s writing here, Not only are her characters completely charming but her style of writing is too. As someone that completely embraces my inner head voice when reading, a Texan accent is a must for this. I hope everyone that reads this agrees. *Audiobook hint?
Bustard also uses an epistolary style (something I just learned) with local news updates and French definitions. I truly truly loved this. It was a fun addition that moved the pace of the story and involved the reader into learning as well.
Let’s talk story now. Glory Bea is a great character. She is spirited, creative, mischievous, and stubborn. I could keep naming a bunch of other adjectives but I’ll go deeper. Blue Skies, while middle grade reading, is not afraid to dive into deep emotions and dealing with loss. Glory Bea firmly believes her father is coming back and I was so into her character, that I believe it with her. Because miracles can happen right? However, it’s more than that. While she prepares for his homecoming, keeping it all a secret, she’s dealing with changes in her life that are out of her control. She has not had her father for fours years and the family along with her have kept his belongings where they are, never giving up. I was just so moved and heartbroken in the glimpses of the past for them. However, it’s all done so gently in the story. It’s an underlining truth to their life but so much more happens. The pace of the book is relatively quick and with a goal in mind, the Merci Train arriving, life continues to move on.
The character relationships are great. I enjoyed the interactions between Glory Bea and Ben, especially the silly pranks they play on each other. Glory Bea’s relationship with her mother really stands out as well. The mother’s reactions, for instance, took me by surprise. I did feel frustration sometimes with her grandparents and mother’s non-action to talking things out with Glory Bea. She is struggling at times and even acting out but they would leave her to calming down or dealing with it herself, besides a short talk. The longest discussion she does have about her feelings ends up being with someone unexpected. It was definitely an interesting approach but perhaps not fully described since we don’t know everything that happened after the War ended.
Things I loved about Blue Skies:
The artistic and musical vibrancy of the town.
Her Grandpa taking out his pocket watch to ensure they’re on time.
Dr. Pepper floats. (Now I want one!)
The be-a-utiful cover.
A ten-year old trying to be a matchmaker.
This historical fiction still being so relevant today.
Glory Bea giving her friend a perm without reading the instructions. (Something I would definitely do.)
The use of the song Blue Skies, which has also been a favorite of mine and holds great memories.
Again, I must mention the amazing writing of this story. The tone is somewhat nostalgic but lighthearted. There are bits of comedy that shine and keep you grinning. I couldn’t put the book down…except for one moment to grab a tissue. A fantastic read that will leave you feeling lighter in spirit than before.
Bustard also uses an epistolary style (something I just learned) with local news updates and French definitions. I truly truly loved this. It was a fun addition that moved the pace of the story and involved the reader into learning as well.
Let’s talk story now. Glory Bea is a great character. She is spirited, creative, mischievous, and stubborn. I could keep naming a bunch of other adjectives but I’ll go deeper. Blue Skies, while middle grade reading, is not afraid to dive into deep emotions and dealing with loss. Glory Bea firmly believes her father is coming back and I was so into her character, that I believe it with her. Because miracles can happen right? However, it’s more than that. While she prepares for his homecoming, keeping it all a secret, she’s dealing with changes in her life that are out of her control. She has not had her father for fours years and the family along with her have kept his belongings where they are, never giving up. I was just so moved and heartbroken in the glimpses of the past for them. However, it’s all done so gently in the story. It’s an underlining truth to their life but so much more happens. The pace of the book is relatively quick and with a goal in mind, the Merci Train arriving, life continues to move on.
The character relationships are great. I enjoyed the interactions between Glory Bea and Ben, especially the silly pranks they play on each other. Glory Bea’s relationship with her mother really stands out as well. The mother’s reactions, for instance, took me by surprise. I did feel frustration sometimes with her grandparents and mother’s non-action to talking things out with Glory Bea. She is struggling at times and even acting out but they would leave her to calming down or dealing with it herself, besides a short talk. The longest discussion she does have about her feelings ends up being with someone unexpected. It was definitely an interesting approach but perhaps not fully described since we don’t know everything that happened after the War ended.
Things I loved about Blue Skies:
The artistic and musical vibrancy of the town.
Her Grandpa taking out his pocket watch to ensure they’re on time.
Dr. Pepper floats. (Now I want one!)
The be-a-utiful cover.
A ten-year old trying to be a matchmaker.
This historical fiction still being so relevant today.
Glory Bea giving her friend a perm without reading the instructions. (Something I would definitely do.)
The use of the song Blue Skies, which has also been a favorite of mine and holds great memories.
Again, I must mention the amazing writing of this story. The tone is somewhat nostalgic but lighthearted. There are bits of comedy that shine and keep you grinning. I couldn’t put the book down…except for one moment to grab a tissue. A fantastic read that will leave you feeling lighter in spirit than before.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2020
Acting out of character, I had read the synopsis of Blue Skies by Anne Bustard before deciding to read the book. The bit about a boxcar caught my eye because there are a few stories that I have read involving boxcars that I hold very dear in my heart. There were no orphans living or being transported to a new life in this boxcar, but I think that it served as a representation of hope much like those other stories.
The cover of Blue Skies is lovely to look at. The blue is the exact shade of what you think of on a perfect day, with fluffy white clouds and white birds flying across the cover. A young girl in a pretty dress looks hopeful as she faces the same direction that the birds are flying to with eyes closed and hands clasped in front of her. Now that I have read the book, the choice of cover has the same flavor of those used for the Anne of Green Gables series. They are beautiful covers but they don’t hint at the firecracker of a girl contained within their pages.
Glory Bea Bennett takes her place among my favorite heroines with big hearts and spirit: Laura Ingalls, Anne Shirley, Jo March, etc. Much like Jo, Glory Bea is “hopelessly flawed,” but that’s what makes you love her even more. She is fiercely loyal to the ones she loves to the point that she might miss the cues that something other than the plans she has for them might be best in the end. Aren’t we all like that at one time or another? Ten-year-old and adult readers alike can use a reminder here or there that we can help the people we love up to a point, and then we are only there to support them in the end.
Bustard has created a wonderful community around such a vibrant character. I have always had a soft spot for the small town where everyone not only knows your name but they know all about your business. I was tickled by the moments when eavesdroppers would get caught listening in on the party line. And with all the cynicism in our world today, it was relaxing to read a story where the conflict arises from inner turmoil rather than a place of evil intentions.
To be completely honest, girls will probably gravitate to this book much like they do to Little House, Green Gables, and Little Women, but boys would also get something out of it if they’re willing to try. While the male characters are secondary, they are strong and not afraid of strong women. I could see this book being used in the classroom when discussing the aftermath of war or perhaps as an introduction to the French language. I wish I had read this book before my trip to Austin so that I could have seen the real life inspiration in person. I have put that on my list of things to do, along with reading other books by Anne Bustard.
The cover of Blue Skies is lovely to look at. The blue is the exact shade of what you think of on a perfect day, with fluffy white clouds and white birds flying across the cover. A young girl in a pretty dress looks hopeful as she faces the same direction that the birds are flying to with eyes closed and hands clasped in front of her. Now that I have read the book, the choice of cover has the same flavor of those used for the Anne of Green Gables series. They are beautiful covers but they don’t hint at the firecracker of a girl contained within their pages.
Glory Bea Bennett takes her place among my favorite heroines with big hearts and spirit: Laura Ingalls, Anne Shirley, Jo March, etc. Much like Jo, Glory Bea is “hopelessly flawed,” but that’s what makes you love her even more. She is fiercely loyal to the ones she loves to the point that she might miss the cues that something other than the plans she has for them might be best in the end. Aren’t we all like that at one time or another? Ten-year-old and adult readers alike can use a reminder here or there that we can help the people we love up to a point, and then we are only there to support them in the end.
Bustard has created a wonderful community around such a vibrant character. I have always had a soft spot for the small town where everyone not only knows your name but they know all about your business. I was tickled by the moments when eavesdroppers would get caught listening in on the party line. And with all the cynicism in our world today, it was relaxing to read a story where the conflict arises from inner turmoil rather than a place of evil intentions.
To be completely honest, girls will probably gravitate to this book much like they do to Little House, Green Gables, and Little Women, but boys would also get something out of it if they’re willing to try. While the male characters are secondary, they are strong and not afraid of strong women. I could see this book being used in the classroom when discussing the aftermath of war or perhaps as an introduction to the French language. I wish I had read this book before my trip to Austin so that I could have seen the real life inspiration in person. I have put that on my list of things to do, along with reading other books by Anne Bustard.
June 10, 2020
What a sweet, wonderful book! Glory Bea believes in miracles and she believes that her father, who died-in-action during the Omaha Beach invasion, will miraculously return when the Merci Train passes through her small Texas town of Gladiola. Glory Bea was told her father died a hero, but deep down inside, she knows he would never leave she or her mother and he is on his way home to them.
I loved the beauty of the story, even as Glory Bea defied rules, she does so with charm and humor, and her mother and grandparents were continually kind and understanding. Every child deserves an upbringing such as Glory Bea had, even if it occurred 70 years ago. Glory Bea's grandmother is a matchmaker, and Glory Bea wants to follow in her footsteps, attempting to match together her two best friends. This story runs along side Glory Bea's quest to prove the existence of the miracle which will bring her father home, and her resistance to the appearance of her father's combat friend.
Every word of this book made my heart feel a little lighter. It is a balm in a world filled with rife and confusion. A walk back into simpler times - not easier, and Glory Bea has her own share of sadness, but there were so many people who were willing to help her along her way. A complete feel-good book to read.
I loved the beauty of the story, even as Glory Bea defied rules, she does so with charm and humor, and her mother and grandparents were continually kind and understanding. Every child deserves an upbringing such as Glory Bea had, even if it occurred 70 years ago. Glory Bea's grandmother is a matchmaker, and Glory Bea wants to follow in her footsteps, attempting to match together her two best friends. This story runs along side Glory Bea's quest to prove the existence of the miracle which will bring her father home, and her resistance to the appearance of her father's combat friend.
Every word of this book made my heart feel a little lighter. It is a balm in a world filled with rife and confusion. A walk back into simpler times - not easier, and Glory Bea has her own share of sadness, but there were so many people who were willing to help her along her way. A complete feel-good book to read.
July 6, 2020
This juvenile novel deeply moved me at times, but overall, I found it bland and inadequate. Even though I really appreciate the powerful elements about grief and loss, the story of Glory Bea processing and coming to terms with her father's MIA status from Omaha Beach was far less powerful than it could have been because of filler subplots.
A significant part of the story revolves around the fact that Glory Bea aspires to be a matchmaker like her grandmother and wants to set up two of her friends. The girl is deep in unrequited love for the boy, and far too much of this brief book focuses on their interactions and the minor, unconvincing conflicts that result. Although another subplot, which is about Glory Bea's mother, is integral to the story, this matchmaker aspect is completely extraneous. It may have been originally designed as world-building, but the grandmother's status as a local matchmaker was completely peripheral to the story, and Glory Bea's goal had no real connection to the rest of her journey.
The subplot ultimately fizzles out to nothing, and as far as I'm concerned, it was a waste of time. This novel may have been too short for its target middle grade audience without it, but I would have much rather read something half the length that packed a more powerful punch than have waded through extraneous small town slice-of-life that never amounted to anything.
A significant part of the story revolves around the fact that Glory Bea aspires to be a matchmaker like her grandmother and wants to set up two of her friends. The girl is deep in unrequited love for the boy, and far too much of this brief book focuses on their interactions and the minor, unconvincing conflicts that result. Although another subplot, which is about Glory Bea's mother, is integral to the story, this matchmaker aspect is completely extraneous. It may have been originally designed as world-building, but the grandmother's status as a local matchmaker was completely peripheral to the story, and Glory Bea's goal had no real connection to the rest of her journey.
The subplot ultimately fizzles out to nothing, and as far as I'm concerned, it was a waste of time. This novel may have been too short for its target middle grade audience without it, but I would have much rather read something half the length that packed a more powerful punch than have waded through extraneous small town slice-of-life that never amounted to anything.
Read
March 15, 2020The Merci Train is coming to their little town of Gladiola, Texas and Glory Bea knows that means her father's finally on his way home. Although the war ended several years ago and Glory Bea's father is presumed dead, Glory Bea has never lost hope that her father would turn up again. She just knows that he'll be waiting for her on the Merci Train, ready to make up for lost time. And he'd better hurry because his best army friend Randall has arrived in town and is courting Glory Bea's mom. As much as she tries to distract herself by matchmaking for her best friend and preparing for the Merci Train's arrival, Glory Bea can't stop thinking about her dad and how life will finally go back to normal once he returns.
This is a poignant historical novel that examines one girl's relationship with her father in postwar America and how strong that relationship can still be even though he never returned.
This is a poignant historical novel that examines one girl's relationship with her father in postwar America and how strong that relationship can still be even though he never returned.
January 14, 2021
Set in the small town of Gladiola, Texas in 1949. Glory Bea, ten years old, and her mom live with her paternal grandparents. The family mourns the loss of her father who died during the Normandy invasion of France. However, Glory Bea doesn’t quite believe this and is hoping that he will arrive on the Merci train sent from France to thank the Americans for their post war assistance. The whole town is excited about train and is planning a grand celebration when it stops in Gladiola. Glory Bea's anticipation is dampened when Randall Horton, a man who knew her father during the war, comes to town and decides to stay. It seems that Mama and Randall are falling in love. That can’t happen!
In the meantime, life is bustling on. There are preteen anxieties: Glory Bea is hoping to fix her best friend up with her neighbor Ben and there are disagreements and new discoveries in the lives of her friends. Effectively told from different points of view, the reader can see all sides of the story.
This story handles the sorrow of losing a parent very carefully.
In the meantime, life is bustling on. There are preteen anxieties: Glory Bea is hoping to fix her best friend up with her neighbor Ben and there are disagreements and new discoveries in the lives of her friends. Effectively told from different points of view, the reader can see all sides of the story.
This story handles the sorrow of losing a parent very carefully.
March 23, 2020
Reading this book during a pandemic gave me a feeling of hope. I spent the day hearing about fights in grocery stores and then read about Glory Bea's small town. A town where strangers are offered to join the dinner table and everyone knows everyone else's favorite recipe. Set years after WWII Glory Bea is still waiting for her dad to come home from the war. Even though it's been several years you throw logic out the window and start keeping your fingers crossed with her. Glory Bea believes her father is coming home on a train from France that is filled with gifts for the American people. Regardless, of what is going on around her, her best friend in love, her neighbor always going out of his way to be there for her, her grandmother's match making, and even her mom's new date nights she stays focused on the countdown. The countdown to arrival for the Merci Train is what is keeping her grounded while she pushes out all competing opinions. At moments the story felt a little stagnate because everything is changing in Glory Bea's world except for her. The sense of small town community sucks you in like a comfy chair. Children ages 9 and up will enjoy learning about the Merci Train which is a real act of kindness from history.
April 3, 2020
Featured on Lone Star Book Blog Tours. Lone Star Blogger Team average rating: 5 stars.
March 22, 2020
Oh how I loved this story! Glory Bea is a wonderful character who deeply loves her father who has been missing after WWII for years. Reading about her dreams to be reunited with her father was both uplifting and heartbreaking. The Merci Train was not something I was familiar with and I enjoyed researching that further after reading the book. Kids will be able to view photos of the different states' cars and see where they are housed today, as well as some of the contents of the cars. Anne Bustard researched that well and documents her sources at the back of the book.
May 17, 2020
I received an ARC of this book, and read it with my second grade daughter, but honestly I absolutely loved this book for any reader. My own grandfather served in WWII (in the pacific theatre, which isn’t featured in this story as Gloria Bea’s father was at Omaha beach) and the connection I feel to this story is wonderful. I tested up numerous times during was so moved by the story. Wonderfully written, and totally accessible. Loved it!
April 23, 2023
Heart-warming without devolving to sappy & faith-honoring without being didactic, it's an excellent book for any child, but especially those with the pain of loss.
December 5, 2020
Won in a Goodreads Giveaway.
This book was a very comforting read. It was well developed and well written. I like the pace, not to slow or fast.
Some things that could have been approved on was indicating when a time shift would happen. One sentence was at one time and then next thing I knew everything changed. So it would have been nice to have a little more indication of change in time and setting.For my personal liking I give this book a 2.5 or 3 but because it is written for a younger audience I think it hit the mark very well. Easy to read and understand. So I give this book a 4.
If I found myself wanting to know what happened then younger readers will surely enjoy this book. At the end I am glad I took the time to read this heart warming story
(Spoilers)
It made my heart wish for the same thing Glory Bea did. I found myself wishing just as much as she did even though I knew her wish wouldn't come true. I enjoyed the ending. I found myself a little teary when her dad didn't show up and even more sad when Randall told Glory Bea the truth of how he died. It depicted the struggle many families probably face when they loose a loved one. Wishing that they would return. This books story allowed even ones who haven't been in that situation to empathize. Also loved the love between Randall and Glory Bea's mom. It allowed us to be okay with the sad ending knowing the happy future they would have. The emotion was easily understood. A wonderful read.
This book was a very comforting read. It was well developed and well written. I like the pace, not to slow or fast.
Some things that could have been approved on was indicating when a time shift would happen. One sentence was at one time and then next thing I knew everything changed. So it would have been nice to have a little more indication of change in time and setting.For my personal liking I give this book a 2.5 or 3 but because it is written for a younger audience I think it hit the mark very well. Easy to read and understand. So I give this book a 4.
If I found myself wanting to know what happened then younger readers will surely enjoy this book. At the end I am glad I took the time to read this heart warming story
(Spoilers)
It made my heart wish for the same thing Glory Bea did. I found myself wishing just as much as she did even though I knew her wish wouldn't come true. I enjoyed the ending. I found myself a little teary when her dad didn't show up and even more sad when Randall told Glory Bea the truth of how he died. It depicted the struggle many families probably face when they loose a loved one. Wishing that they would return. This books story allowed even ones who haven't been in that situation to empathize. Also loved the love between Randall and Glory Bea's mom. It allowed us to be okay with the sad ending knowing the happy future they would have. The emotion was easily understood. A wonderful read.
January 10, 2020
As Glory Bea navigates through the anticipated days of the Merci train she still holds onto the hope of her father returning from WWII. Her father's friend comes for an extended visit and gets too comfortable in Glory Bea's opinion. What is a girl to do? She just wants her dad to return.
This is a sweet book that has some very real themes about war that will always hold true no matter the year. I did find a few things that were not historically correct and that distracted me, (her friend had braces) but overall it was an endearing book.
Thanks #netgalley for the advanced copy of #blueskies
This is a sweet book that has some very real themes about war that will always hold true no matter the year. I did find a few things that were not historically correct and that distracted me, (her friend had braces) but overall it was an endearing book.
Thanks #netgalley for the advanced copy of #blueskies
April 10, 2020
It's 1948. 10 year old Glory Bea's father never returned from the war, and though her mom and grandparents have told her that he was lost at Omaha Beach, it's hard to believe that he's dead when everything in their house is waiting for him, just like he left it. She is sure that her miracle is coming, that he'll be home on the Friendship Train that France has sent in thanks for America's help.
This was really delightful and lovely. I'm a little uncertain on the timeline--it wouldn't seem like Glory Bea would have many memories of her father before he left in 1942, since she'd have been four, but apparently she does. I wondered if she was older in an earlier draft, with all of the crushes and romances? Or maybe fifth graders were 11 and 12 in 1948? I also wondered why Ben's father, who coached at the HS, was already a cook at Pearl Harbor in Dec 1941. All of that kept knocking me out of the story a lot, but I imagine most middle grade readers wouldn't think twice about it.
Glory Bea's faith in her father was SO strong that I kept half wondering what the outcome would be! I liked the looks at how the war impacted soldiers in different ways, and how the rest of the country was so ready to move on after 1945 but a lot of soldiers were still reeling with no one to listen. There's multiple ways to be lost to a war. Ruby Jane's attempts to flirt were absolutely hilarious and sweet. The resolution to that felt a little weird, but it was overall fun. I loved the details of the 40s, and I really enjoyed all of the characters, especially Glory Bea's family.
This was really delightful and lovely. I'm a little uncertain on the timeline--it wouldn't seem like Glory Bea would have many memories of her father before he left in 1942, since she'd have been four, but apparently she does. I wondered if she was older in an earlier draft, with all of the crushes and romances? Or maybe fifth graders were 11 and 12 in 1948? I also wondered why Ben's father, who coached at the HS, was already a cook at Pearl Harbor in Dec 1941. All of that kept knocking me out of the story a lot, but I imagine most middle grade readers wouldn't think twice about it.
Glory Bea's faith in her father was SO strong that I kept half wondering what the outcome would be! I liked the looks at how the war impacted soldiers in different ways, and how the rest of the country was so ready to move on after 1945 but a lot of soldiers were still reeling with no one to listen. There's multiple ways to be lost to a war. Ruby Jane's attempts to flirt were absolutely hilarious and sweet. The resolution to that felt a little weird, but it was overall fun. I loved the details of the 40s, and I really enjoyed all of the characters, especially Glory Bea's family.
August 11, 2020
Eleven-year-old Glory Bea Bennett's gram performs miracles with her match making skills in their small Texas town. Even three years after WWII, Glory Bea believes in miracles, especially the one where her father, who her family says was reported MIA after D-Day, is perhaps suffering from amnesia and will be the surprise guest on the Merci Train which will go through their town carrying gifts from a grateful nation--France. Glory Bea's father can't be dead because his clothes are still in the closet and his chair in the dining room is waiting for him.
This small Texas town has the charm of Mayberry, U.S.A. with folks who welcome each other in their homes for dinner, and the local newspaper that brings the community together by printing French words and phrases to help them prepare for the parade and welcoming ceremonies when the Merci Tain from France makes a short stop in Gladiola, Texas.
I'm partial to historical fiction stories, especially those dealing around the WWII era, with all the rich details and facts I don't know. This one will also tug at your heart, but will offer warmth and humor too.
An extra bonus is the warm family--especially gram and grandpa who encourage their daughter-in-law, who lives with them and Glory Bea, to find love again.
This small Texas town has the charm of Mayberry, U.S.A. with folks who welcome each other in their homes for dinner, and the local newspaper that brings the community together by printing French words and phrases to help them prepare for the parade and welcoming ceremonies when the Merci Tain from France makes a short stop in Gladiola, Texas.
I'm partial to historical fiction stories, especially those dealing around the WWII era, with all the rich details and facts I don't know. This one will also tug at your heart, but will offer warmth and humor too.
An extra bonus is the warm family--especially gram and grandpa who encourage their daughter-in-law, who lives with them and Glory Bea, to find love again.
May 3, 2020
Blue Skies
by Anne Bustard
Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Children's Fiction
Pub Date 17 Mar 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Blue Skies through Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing and Netgalley:
Glory Bea Bennett knows that in Gladiola Texas, with its population of 3,421 miracles happen. In fact her Grandmother is responsible for thirty nine of them.
Right now Glory Bea needs her very own miracle.
The Second World War ended three years ago, but Glory Bea never returned home from the front in France. When her Mom, Grandmother and Grandfather tell her that her father died on Omaha Beach she understands but somewhere deep down she believes her Father is still out there.
When the local newspaper the Gladiola Gazette reports that one of the Boxcars from the Merci Train a train that is filled with gifts is stopping in Gladiola, Glory Bea is certain that her Daddy will be its surprise cargo.
This middle grade novel would be a perfect tool to get children to talk about their feelings of grief.
I give Blue Skies five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
by Anne Bustard
Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Children's Fiction
Pub Date 17 Mar 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Blue Skies through Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing and Netgalley:
Glory Bea Bennett knows that in Gladiola Texas, with its population of 3,421 miracles happen. In fact her Grandmother is responsible for thirty nine of them.
Right now Glory Bea needs her very own miracle.
The Second World War ended three years ago, but Glory Bea never returned home from the front in France. When her Mom, Grandmother and Grandfather tell her that her father died on Omaha Beach she understands but somewhere deep down she believes her Father is still out there.
When the local newspaper the Gladiola Gazette reports that one of the Boxcars from the Merci Train a train that is filled with gifts is stopping in Gladiola, Glory Bea is certain that her Daddy will be its surprise cargo.
This middle grade novel would be a perfect tool to get children to talk about their feelings of grief.
I give Blue Skies five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
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