What do you think?
Rate this book
Lemon Drop Falls
Brave the sour to taste the sweet.
Morgan is devastated by her mother’s sudden death. Before, Mom’s amazing organizational skills kept the family on track, and her bowl of lemon drops was always on hand to make difficult conversations easy, turning life’s sour into sweet. After, there’s no one to help Morgan navigate her new role caring for her younger siblings, her worries about starting junior high, and her increasingly confusing friendships. All she can do is try to fulfill her mother’s final request: Keep them safe, Morgan. Be brave for them. Help them be happy.
When Dad insists on taking the family on their regular summer camping trip, and Morgan’s efforts to keep her promise to Mom seem doomed to fail, Morgan’s anxiety spirals into a panic attack, and Dad treats her like she’s impossibly broken. Unable to share her fears and needs with Dad, and desperate to prove she’s got the strength to hold the family together, Morgan sets off alone to hike a flooding canyon trail. But somewhere on that lonely and dangerous journey, Morgan will encounter the truth about the final words her mother left her, the power in finding her own voice, and the possibility of new beginnings.
Morgan is devastated by her mother’s sudden death. Before, Mom’s amazing organizational skills kept the family on track, and her bowl of lemon drops was always on hand to make difficult conversations easy, turning life’s sour into sweet. After, there’s no one to help Morgan navigate her new role caring for her younger siblings, her worries about starting junior high, and her increasingly confusing friendships. All she can do is try to fulfill her mother’s final request: Keep them safe, Morgan. Be brave for them. Help them be happy.
When Dad insists on taking the family on their regular summer camping trip, and Morgan’s efforts to keep her promise to Mom seem doomed to fail, Morgan’s anxiety spirals into a panic attack, and Dad treats her like she’s impossibly broken. Unable to share her fears and needs with Dad, and desperate to prove she’s got the strength to hold the family together, Morgan sets off alone to hike a flooding canyon trail. But somewhere on that lonely and dangerous journey, Morgan will encounter the truth about the final words her mother left her, the power in finding her own voice, and the possibility of new beginnings.
280 pages, Paperback
First published February 15, 2022
5 people are currently reading
2014 people want to read
About the author
Heather Clark
1 book53 followersHeather Clark grew up near the Rocky Mountains of Canada, then followed the mountain range south, to her current home in Utah, where she lives with her husband and three children who inspire the books she writes. Heather’s work as a writer, photographer, and teacher helps her see the beauty and unique value in every person. After dealing with her own childhood anxiety and OCD, Heather is passionate about representing neurodiverse children powerfully in fiction. When she’s not working, you can find Heather camping, hiking, boardgaming, or reading and celebrating books at MGBookParty.com. You can learn more about Heather and her books at HeatherClarkBooks.com. LEMON DROP FALLS is her debut novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
February 7, 2022
Did your mom have lemon drops in the house? My mom still has a baggie of them in her purse. If you are sitting next to her in church, she will pass you that bag so you can suck on one during the sermon. I wish I had used lemon drops with my kids the way Morgan's mother does in this story. What a great way to give kids and other people in our lives a moment to reflect on what they have to say. The lemon drop is such a great analogy for hard talks that result in a closer relationship. Heather Clark writes the story of Morgan and her family in a Before and After timeline. "Mama Bell" died suddenly of a pulmonary embolism and the family is numb with shock. Morgan is twelve and feels a burden to keep her family going. It isn't Plan A, but she is determined to keep them in Plan B no matter how much it stinks. She is certain that sliding into Plan C will lead directly to Plan D for Disaster. A solo hike on impulse takes Morgan into dangerous territory. Morgan's mom was a Life Coach and Morgan can hear her mother's voice, but does not see a way to live a happy life again. If only she could actually talk to her mother in person. . . I really loved the way the two timelines complemented each other. You could see how the complete and connected life Morgan had before her mom's death was starting to fray and fracture in other ways as well. Could it be that Plan B is meant to be temporary and can launch you into a new Plan A? This would be a fantastic classroom read aloud. Looking forward to seeing more books from Heather Clark.
Thank you to Jolly Fish Press and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Jolly Fish Press and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2022
This is a Middle Grade book. This book is told with two different timelines (Before Mother's death and After Mother's death) by Morgan. I found the beginning of this book hard to get into. This book is covering some hard topics (Death of a Mother and Mental Health). I loved the lemon drops idea in this book, and I really loved the ending. I think this book needed less bouncing Before and After, and It also needed some light hearted moments mixed into the hard hitting times in this book. I liked this book, but I really wanted to love this book. The ending is where all the action is. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (North Star Editions) or author (Heather Clark) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
March 25, 2022
Happy Publication Day!
I cried my eyes out while reading this book. I knew it would make me sad and break my heart when I got the ARC. But all the tears.... I wasn't expecting that.
All I am trying to say is that this book is really good. The writing, the themes it's representing, the realistic characters and the story. It all clicks. Just the perfect book which tells the story of a grieving family and a young character with anxiety. The book is written with sensitivity and understanding that I feel this book needs to be shared and read by the young and the adults.
Unlike most of the middle grade books, this book shows the vulnerable sides of adults. Adults do not know everything and we aren't perfect like how our kids see us when they are really young.
The story is quite realistic and it explores what we can do in such situations. One of those books we bawl our eyes out because they are so real and relatable.
Go for this book without thinking twice. But yes take your time while reading it. And also a certain headspace before picking it up.
*Be aware that the book deals with grief and anxiety in details.
Thank you, Flux, Jolly Fish Press for the advance reading copy.
I cried my eyes out while reading this book. I knew it would make me sad and break my heart when I got the ARC. But all the tears.... I wasn't expecting that.
All I am trying to say is that this book is really good. The writing, the themes it's representing, the realistic characters and the story. It all clicks. Just the perfect book which tells the story of a grieving family and a young character with anxiety. The book is written with sensitivity and understanding that I feel this book needs to be shared and read by the young and the adults.
Unlike most of the middle grade books, this book shows the vulnerable sides of adults. Adults do not know everything and we aren't perfect like how our kids see us when they are really young.
The story is quite realistic and it explores what we can do in such situations. One of those books we bawl our eyes out because they are so real and relatable.
Go for this book without thinking twice. But yes take your time while reading it. And also a certain headspace before picking it up.
*Be aware that the book deals with grief and anxiety in details.
Thank you, Flux, Jolly Fish Press for the advance reading copy.
February 17, 2022
Wow! Wow! Wow! I am just blown away by this book! It takes a lot for me to feel this way about a contemporary….I mean where I not only enjoyed it, but fell absolutely in love with it. Well this one took my heart, & I would give it again & again for this book. This was told so beautifully, & the writing was absolutely superb. I was so impressed by this author. The chapters alternate between “Before” & “After”(& it tells you which at each chapter head). Before means before Morgan’s mom died, so we get to see memories/moments in time of life before, & what was going on in Morgan’s life leading up to that tragic day. After, is of course after her mom dies, & for the most part those chapters are current time. I really enjoyed that aspect. It makes you even more invested with Morgan, her friends, her mom & the whole story. With everything Morgan had going on in her life when her mom died-especially the day of….plus about to start junior high & everything that’s changing..it’s a time in her life where she needs her mom more than ever. Then she feels like she has to step in & be mom to her siblings, & run the household so her dad doesn’t worry. She has so much on her shoulders, & she can’t even let herself grieve, much less be a kid. She was incredible. So many great messages in here. Just amazing. The whole idea of the lemon drops was just brilliant, & the reason. Makes perfect sense. Such a great analogy. I also loved how her mom was a life coach, & the whole idea of the Plan A, B, & C approach. I absolutely loved her mom, she was amazing. Like I said, you feel such a connection with these characters. I highly recommend it. Absolutely loved the ending & how the story came together to wrap up. Big book hug for sure. Stunning cover by Dirclumsy too!💜
Some extra personal thoughts-
For me personally, I knew from the 1st chapter when we learn how the mom died, this would be hard for me. It’s like a window into what could’ve happened, but God spared my husband & everyone who loves him. Almost 6 years ago my husband had a cramping in his lower leg that wouldn’t go away. I made him go to the doctor. It was blood clots. They put him on blood thinners. A month later at the check up he told them when he coughed it was like his ribs were sore. They took X-rays, etc & said they’d call us with results. I’ll never forget..it wasn’t even 20 minutes later. We were standing in Walgreens, & they said he had to come back immediately. The blood clots had traveled from his leg to his lung, 3 of them. They put him in a wheel chair as soon as we got there, said he couldn’t be walking around, because at any moment they could burst or whatever & go to his heart, etc. He stayed in the hospital a few days while they dissolved them, & he’s been on blood thinners ever since. He was 36, & they still have no idea how or why he got them after a zillion tests. But he’s here & Im so grateful. I’m so thankful, & reading the back of the book, I saw the author dealt with similar, & I’m so happy her story continued on, just like my husbands.💜
Some extra personal thoughts-
For me personally, I knew from the 1st chapter when we learn how the mom died, this would be hard for me. It’s like a window into what could’ve happened, but God spared my husband & everyone who loves him. Almost 6 years ago my husband had a cramping in his lower leg that wouldn’t go away. I made him go to the doctor. It was blood clots. They put him on blood thinners. A month later at the check up he told them when he coughed it was like his ribs were sore. They took X-rays, etc & said they’d call us with results. I’ll never forget..it wasn’t even 20 minutes later. We were standing in Walgreens, & they said he had to come back immediately. The blood clots had traveled from his leg to his lung, 3 of them. They put him in a wheel chair as soon as we got there, said he couldn’t be walking around, because at any moment they could burst or whatever & go to his heart, etc. He stayed in the hospital a few days while they dissolved them, & he’s been on blood thinners ever since. He was 36, & they still have no idea how or why he got them after a zillion tests. But he’s here & Im so grateful. I’m so thankful, & reading the back of the book, I saw the author dealt with similar, & I’m so happy her story continued on, just like my husbands.💜
December 5, 2021
A lovely story about a young girl coping with anxiety in the face of the unexpected death of her mother. The narration switches back and forth between Before and After the tragedy, giving us insights into the heartbreaking days leading up to her mother's death as well as Morgan's desperate attempts to cling to her ultra-organized mother's planning schedule after she finds herself responsible for the care of your younger siblings when her dad recedes into "the fog". I particularly loved her mother's use of lemon drops to foster dialogue since they are a reminder that its not until you get through the sour that you find the sweet.
April 28, 2025
Beautiful in every way
Gorgeous story of life and growing and changes and loss. Getting through the bitter to find the sweet is a wonderful message of hope for all of us
Gorgeous story of life and growing and changes and loss. Getting through the bitter to find the sweet is a wonderful message of hope for all of us
March 15, 2022
Full review - https://booksteacupreviews.com/2022/0...
Lemon Drop Falls is touching and moving middle grade fiction that revolves around 12 yrs old Morgan learning to live life after her mother’s death. The story is about coping with loss and grief, new transition in life, friendship, anxiety, family, and hope.
Story started with After chapter, how Morgan is managing her life and sibling after her mother’s death, compromises she makes to keep her promise with her mother before she died, ‘be brave and keep and family happy’. It isn’t easy for her with loss of mother, problems with her best friends that drifted them apart, boy problem, and dad who kind of lived in fog of his own grief and now sole breadwinner to whom she cannot share her feelings. But when after few months when her father takes family on their regular summer camping trip to Capital Reef, all Morgan’s efforts to keep her promise with her mother seem to fall apart.
It was interesting to read what happened with her best friends, why they are not there to support her, why her father insisted on family camping all of sudden, why she stopped talking about her feelings with him, what made her go on a hike alone, and how the trail will change her.
Tone of the story is heavy and serious because of its theme and plot. There are only few lighter moments but author kept the main plot in center which didn’t exactly give enough breathing space from the heaviness but I think I wouldn’t change that as it also made story realistic and relatable.
Climax is fantastic with Morgan discovering side of her mother she didn’t know about and how that helped her getting over grief and idea of failing to keep her promise with her mother. I loved the message from the story in this part about life’s uncertainty, things about planning, how if one fails take the fall to resource to new plan in life, sharing feelings with loved ones, forgiveness and adjust with changes in life and sit back to see how it’s taking shape. Morgan’s talk with her father just before end brought teas in my eyes. It is my most favorite moment on entire book.
End is perfect. It doesn’t promise the entire happiness that once can never have with loss of loved ones one step after another towards happiness and live life filling the gap left by loss with memories and loved ones still around.
Overall, Lemon Drop Falls is touching, sensitive, realistic, relatable, and beautifully well written middle grade fiction.
I highly recommend this if you like,
story about loss and grief
character dealing with anxiety
vulnerable adults in middle grade story
realistic and relatable situations
importance of discussing heavy topic and feelings
transition to junior high and what it means for person of this age
Lemon Drop Falls is touching and moving middle grade fiction that revolves around 12 yrs old Morgan learning to live life after her mother’s death. The story is about coping with loss and grief, new transition in life, friendship, anxiety, family, and hope.
Story started with After chapter, how Morgan is managing her life and sibling after her mother’s death, compromises she makes to keep her promise with her mother before she died, ‘be brave and keep and family happy’. It isn’t easy for her with loss of mother, problems with her best friends that drifted them apart, boy problem, and dad who kind of lived in fog of his own grief and now sole breadwinner to whom she cannot share her feelings. But when after few months when her father takes family on their regular summer camping trip to Capital Reef, all Morgan’s efforts to keep her promise with her mother seem to fall apart.
It was interesting to read what happened with her best friends, why they are not there to support her, why her father insisted on family camping all of sudden, why she stopped talking about her feelings with him, what made her go on a hike alone, and how the trail will change her.
Tone of the story is heavy and serious because of its theme and plot. There are only few lighter moments but author kept the main plot in center which didn’t exactly give enough breathing space from the heaviness but I think I wouldn’t change that as it also made story realistic and relatable.
Climax is fantastic with Morgan discovering side of her mother she didn’t know about and how that helped her getting over grief and idea of failing to keep her promise with her mother. I loved the message from the story in this part about life’s uncertainty, things about planning, how if one fails take the fall to resource to new plan in life, sharing feelings with loved ones, forgiveness and adjust with changes in life and sit back to see how it’s taking shape. Morgan’s talk with her father just before end brought teas in my eyes. It is my most favorite moment on entire book.
End is perfect. It doesn’t promise the entire happiness that once can never have with loss of loved ones one step after another towards happiness and live life filling the gap left by loss with memories and loved ones still around.
Overall, Lemon Drop Falls is touching, sensitive, realistic, relatable, and beautifully well written middle grade fiction.
I highly recommend this if you like,
story about loss and grief
character dealing with anxiety
vulnerable adults in middle grade story
realistic and relatable situations
importance of discussing heavy topic and feelings
transition to junior high and what it means for person of this age
December 28, 2022
“Mom always said that difficult conversations were like lemon drops- sour at first, but soon becoming sweet, easier to handle.”
Before her tragic death, Morgan’s mother’s last request to her was “keep them safe, Morgan. Be brave for them. Help them be happy.” Living in a state of perpetual “plan B”, Morgan tries her best to keep it together for her father and her siblings, while also navigating her own challenges related to friendships, impending puberty, and her own grief. When her father deviates from the plan Morgan developed to instead take the family on their annual camping trip, everything that Morgan has been trying to hold together begins to unravel. (Full synopsis on next slide) 🍋
Lemondrop Falls is a powerful and moving middle grade novel about grief, loss, friendship, and family. Morgan is twelve, and in a story line that alternates between past and present, the reader starts to see the ways that her anxiety began to creep around the corners, even before losing her mom. Though primarily about the loss of a parent, this book is also about anticipating the transition into middle school, navigating changing friendships and the pressures of growing up a little faster than you’re ready to.
In addition to feeling so hard for Morgan as she navigates her pain, I loved the way that Morgan’s mother discussed parenting and discipline, and the way that the family created space to make initiating difficult conversations less vulnerable. I think I’ll be teaching the lemon drop method to some of my families. I appreciated the way her father utilized support from Morgan’s therapist, and the ways that the intersection between anxiety and grief was explored. This is a fantastic debut from Heather Clark that hit me in the way that my favorite (heart-wrenching) middle grade novels did when I was the target audience. Younger readers or readers with existing anxiety about parent death may need some support reading this one.
Before her tragic death, Morgan’s mother’s last request to her was “keep them safe, Morgan. Be brave for them. Help them be happy.” Living in a state of perpetual “plan B”, Morgan tries her best to keep it together for her father and her siblings, while also navigating her own challenges related to friendships, impending puberty, and her own grief. When her father deviates from the plan Morgan developed to instead take the family on their annual camping trip, everything that Morgan has been trying to hold together begins to unravel. (Full synopsis on next slide) 🍋
Lemondrop Falls is a powerful and moving middle grade novel about grief, loss, friendship, and family. Morgan is twelve, and in a story line that alternates between past and present, the reader starts to see the ways that her anxiety began to creep around the corners, even before losing her mom. Though primarily about the loss of a parent, this book is also about anticipating the transition into middle school, navigating changing friendships and the pressures of growing up a little faster than you’re ready to.
In addition to feeling so hard for Morgan as she navigates her pain, I loved the way that Morgan’s mother discussed parenting and discipline, and the way that the family created space to make initiating difficult conversations less vulnerable. I think I’ll be teaching the lemon drop method to some of my families. I appreciated the way her father utilized support from Morgan’s therapist, and the ways that the intersection between anxiety and grief was explored. This is a fantastic debut from Heather Clark that hit me in the way that my favorite (heart-wrenching) middle grade novels did when I was the target audience. Younger readers or readers with existing anxiety about parent death may need some support reading this one.
February 15, 2022
Get your Kleenex boxes ready before you start this debut novel by Heather Clark. Main character Morgan is doing all that she can to tend to not only her younger brother and sister, but the cooking, cleaning, and planning that are required since her mother unexpectedly died. She has to hold in all her own feelings and needs and be sure that nothing happens that reveals just how much she is grieving and how badly she needs someone to take care of her! Then her dad’s “fog” begins to lift and he decides to wreck all the plans that Morgan has made to insure a successful start of school by taking the now smaller family to Capital Rock to try and recapture some of the joy experienced on their yearly trip. Will tragedy strike again?
Morgan’s anxiety and grief are complicated by her struggle to keep it “buttoned up” and even the family tradition of eating a lemon drop while sharing feelings and problems and thus going from sour to sweet must be refused. Puberty, the move from 6th grade and into junior high, and changing friendships further cement this book as one that will give 4th-7th graders much to think about and enjoy. Readers will see connections to Lindsay Stoddard’s Bea is for Blended, Tricia Springstubb’s The Most Perfect Place in the Universe and Laura Melchor’s Missing Okalee. Highly recommended for libraries with readership in sad-happy heart warmers like these as well as those by Joan Bauer, Barbara O’Connor, and Lisa Graff. No profanity, sexual content, or violence (outside of raging water) present. Representation: Race is not critical to storyline, but Morgan’s family presents as Caucasian with her best friend, Keilani, coming from a native Hawaiian background. MC w/an anxiety disorder present and strategies for coping are incorporated, including counseling which is clearly recommended for a variety of reasons.
Thanks for the e-arc, NetGalley!
Morgan’s anxiety and grief are complicated by her struggle to keep it “buttoned up” and even the family tradition of eating a lemon drop while sharing feelings and problems and thus going from sour to sweet must be refused. Puberty, the move from 6th grade and into junior high, and changing friendships further cement this book as one that will give 4th-7th graders much to think about and enjoy. Readers will see connections to Lindsay Stoddard’s Bea is for Blended, Tricia Springstubb’s The Most Perfect Place in the Universe and Laura Melchor’s Missing Okalee. Highly recommended for libraries with readership in sad-happy heart warmers like these as well as those by Joan Bauer, Barbara O’Connor, and Lisa Graff. No profanity, sexual content, or violence (outside of raging water) present. Representation: Race is not critical to storyline, but Morgan’s family presents as Caucasian with her best friend, Keilani, coming from a native Hawaiian background. MC w/an anxiety disorder present and strategies for coping are incorporated, including counseling which is clearly recommended for a variety of reasons.
Thanks for the e-arc, NetGalley!
September 7, 2021
Heather Clark's debut middle grade was a homerun for me. I was immediately drawn into the story with lovable characters who are all just trying their best and getting really mixed up along the way. Learning to talk to each other about hardship instead of bottle it up and leaving on your family even when it's hard were major themes in the book. Learning that you can't do it all on your own was perhaps the biggest lesson of all.
I can't wait to see more from Clark!
I can't wait to see more from Clark!
February 17, 2022
CW for parental death and anxiety.
This was such a powerful read. Heather Clark really knows how to make the most of each word in this book, because even though it's only around 250 pages, it's so well written and I was able to really feel how Morgan was feeling and it's a very emotional read. This is such a beautiful story about grief and mental health and learning how to continue living, even after the death of a loved one.
The only reason this is 4 instead of 5 stars is because while I did enjoy the dual timeline (before her mother's death and after) and how the conflict built up in each one, I felt that sometimes it was a little too choppy, as the chapters were pretty short (I love short chapters) and so it would go back and forth just a little too quickly for me. But this was really such a good read and I definitely recommend it.
Thank you so much to the publisher and netgalley for providing me with an e-arc to review.
This was such a powerful read. Heather Clark really knows how to make the most of each word in this book, because even though it's only around 250 pages, it's so well written and I was able to really feel how Morgan was feeling and it's a very emotional read. This is such a beautiful story about grief and mental health and learning how to continue living, even after the death of a loved one.
The only reason this is 4 instead of 5 stars is because while I did enjoy the dual timeline (before her mother's death and after) and how the conflict built up in each one, I felt that sometimes it was a little too choppy, as the chapters were pretty short (I love short chapters) and so it would go back and forth just a little too quickly for me. But this was really such a good read and I definitely recommend it.
Thank you so much to the publisher and netgalley for providing me with an e-arc to review.
July 29, 2021
I was fortunate enough to get to get my hands on this book pre-publication, and I could not put it down. LEMON DROP FALLS is raw, real, lyrical, and heartfelt. I loved Morgan, the main character, but each character down to the most minor has a distinct voice and feels like a real person. It’s structured masterfully, into After and Before chapters, which is exactly how it feels when someone you love dies—like your life is permanently cracked in two. Both storylines are riveting, and the way the novel shifts back and forth from present to past is such an elegant way to demonstrate how the past haunts the present…but also how we always carry loved ones with us, even after they're gone. This book is full of hope, heart, and even humor. Kids are going to love it, especially kids like Morgan, who’ve been forced to bear heavy burdens.
June 28, 2022
Morgan‘s pain hurt my heart and I cried a river right along with her when her emotions finally spilled out and the truth broke free. It’s only as an adult that I’ve learned how so many of my own struggles come from anxiety and just having a name for it has changed how I handle things. Morgan and her family taught some beautiful lessons about life and how plans change, sometimes in dramatic ways. I appreciate the way the author made anxiety relatable and showed the importance of expressing your needs and not bottling your feelings up in order to find healing.
August 12, 2024
This book is a treasure. I truly love it from the bottom of my heart. It's engaging and had me invested and needing more from the very beginning. I love the characters and the way the story is told. It fits so well for a 12 year old girl with anxiety. It warmed my heart and was full of hope.
The world needs more books like this.
The world needs more books like this.
January 30, 2022
A solid MG book about a girl coping with Plan B in life, after the sudden death of her mother. How Plan A doesn’t always pan out and that sometimes you need a NEW Plan A since the path you were originally heading down changes.
February 28, 2022
Thank you Jolly Fish Press for an eARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
4/5 stars
CWs: death of a parent, grief, anxiety, panic attacks
This was a really emotional read. A lot of it was quite sad, which was understandable given the main plot, but it was also a story about learning to move on from tragedy and let yourself be happy and feel not fine all the time. I thought the author did an excellent job of conveying Morgan’s thoughts and emotions, and Morgan was a very realistic character. I was able to relate to how she was feeling, and I was really rooting for her throughout the story.
The story follows 12-year-old Morgan in 2 timelines. There’s the Before timeline and the After timeline. I thought the dual timelines were well executed, and the Before timeline really impacted the emotional aspect of the book because we got to see just how much Morgan’s life had changed after the death of her mom. Her mom’s death is completely unexpected, and it completely changes Morgan’s world. Suddenly she’s watching her 2 younger siblings and acting like their parent while trying to hold her emotions inside and convince her dad that everything is totally fine.
Morgan’s emotional journey was enthralling, and I liked that the author didn’t shy away from showing her panic attacks, or the growing anxiety over things that hadn’t previously bothered her.
The pacing was a bit slow, but this is a character driven story so it worked out well. I thought it was fitting to show Morgan’s character growth. The writing style was super easy to read, and I think younger readers will be able to relate to Morgan’s voice.
4/5 stars
CWs: death of a parent, grief, anxiety, panic attacks
This was a really emotional read. A lot of it was quite sad, which was understandable given the main plot, but it was also a story about learning to move on from tragedy and let yourself be happy and feel not fine all the time. I thought the author did an excellent job of conveying Morgan’s thoughts and emotions, and Morgan was a very realistic character. I was able to relate to how she was feeling, and I was really rooting for her throughout the story.
The story follows 12-year-old Morgan in 2 timelines. There’s the Before timeline and the After timeline. I thought the dual timelines were well executed, and the Before timeline really impacted the emotional aspect of the book because we got to see just how much Morgan’s life had changed after the death of her mom. Her mom’s death is completely unexpected, and it completely changes Morgan’s world. Suddenly she’s watching her 2 younger siblings and acting like their parent while trying to hold her emotions inside and convince her dad that everything is totally fine.
Morgan’s emotional journey was enthralling, and I liked that the author didn’t shy away from showing her panic attacks, or the growing anxiety over things that hadn’t previously bothered her.
The pacing was a bit slow, but this is a character driven story so it worked out well. I thought it was fitting to show Morgan’s character growth. The writing style was super easy to read, and I think younger readers will be able to relate to Morgan’s voice.
July 23, 2022
This would be a high four star book. The book provides an excellent look at anxiety and an adolescent taking on too much responsibility. Examples of self talk are used through-out the book. The ending is 5 star for sure. It is a very heavy story of grief after the sudden death of her mother. A little too heavy- I wish themes could be explored without a dead mom always driving a plot. The lemon drop example is perfect. This plot could really be a trigger for those that have lost someone and in the thick of the grieving process. At the same time, it could be really helpful toward healing.
August 13, 2021
Twelve-year-old Morgan's mom, a professional life-coach and creator of a life planning system, has unexpectedly died. Her last words to her oldest daughter were, "Keep them safe, Morgan. Be brave for them. Help them be happy."
Morgan's trying her best to fulfill her mom's last wish. In spite of her young age, she's taking care of her two younger siblings, a dad who's struggling with his own grief, the housework, keeping everyone fed, all while trying to hold onto her two best friends in spite of a rift that's come between them in the form of a bossy, troublesome new girl.
And if that's not enough to juggle, Dad suddenly decides that the family's annual camping trip is a go - even though mom's not around to organize it, and back-to-school plans urgently need to be take care of. Morgan's stretched to the limit trying to take care of everything for everyone, while keeping quiet about her own needs for fear her Dad will think she can't handle it all.
The chapters alternate between "Before", "After" and "Now". The transitions between timeframes are smooth and often very clever. As the camping trip progresses, the storylines grow more and more intense, until they finally reach a point where you will be unable to put down the book. The last chapters are achingly beautiful, sad, and triumphant. Morgan's journey is filled with lessons to be learned by anyone with an open mind and heart, whether you are twelve years old or twenty-and-twelve.
My thanks to author Heather Clark, Jolly Fish Press, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a digital advance review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Morgan's trying her best to fulfill her mom's last wish. In spite of her young age, she's taking care of her two younger siblings, a dad who's struggling with his own grief, the housework, keeping everyone fed, all while trying to hold onto her two best friends in spite of a rift that's come between them in the form of a bossy, troublesome new girl.
And if that's not enough to juggle, Dad suddenly decides that the family's annual camping trip is a go - even though mom's not around to organize it, and back-to-school plans urgently need to be take care of. Morgan's stretched to the limit trying to take care of everything for everyone, while keeping quiet about her own needs for fear her Dad will think she can't handle it all.
The chapters alternate between "Before", "After" and "Now". The transitions between timeframes are smooth and often very clever. As the camping trip progresses, the storylines grow more and more intense, until they finally reach a point where you will be unable to put down the book. The last chapters are achingly beautiful, sad, and triumphant. Morgan's journey is filled with lessons to be learned by anyone with an open mind and heart, whether you are twelve years old or twenty-and-twelve.
My thanks to author Heather Clark, Jolly Fish Press, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a digital advance review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
August 26, 2021
Morgan's had a lot of responsibility since her mom died--she's the one who takes care of her younger siblings, Janie and Budge, every day after school--just like she promised her Mom. But when Dad decides to take the kids on their annual summer camping trip, Morgan's anxiety ramps up. She hates feeling vulnerable and weak, so she impulsively decides to hike a flooding canyon trail.
There is so much to love about this book. From the very first pages, I loved the way Morgan interacted with Janie and Budge. Their connection is strong and loving, and Morgan is understandably tired! I also really appreciated the scenes at home. During one part, Morgan is cooking dinner and I felt so connected to her thoughts and feelings. I don't want to spoil anything but let's just say that I'll never think of a microwaved baked potato the same way again.
Another powerful part of this book was the structure. Although Mom has already died when the book begins, we get to know her through flashbacks and she is very much a part of the story. I thought this was touching and also true to life. It's very rewarding to see Morgan go through her process and face her grief head-on.
Equal parts heartwarming and fast-paced, readers will immediately root for Morgan as she experiences all the sweet and sour life has to offer.
There is so much to love about this book. From the very first pages, I loved the way Morgan interacted with Janie and Budge. Their connection is strong and loving, and Morgan is understandably tired! I also really appreciated the scenes at home. During one part, Morgan is cooking dinner and I felt so connected to her thoughts and feelings. I don't want to spoil anything but let's just say that I'll never think of a microwaved baked potato the same way again.
Another powerful part of this book was the structure. Although Mom has already died when the book begins, we get to know her through flashbacks and she is very much a part of the story. I thought this was touching and also true to life. It's very rewarding to see Morgan go through her process and face her grief head-on.
Equal parts heartwarming and fast-paced, readers will immediately root for Morgan as she experiences all the sweet and sour life has to offer.
September 16, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this novel. The free copy did not affect my review.
This was such a great book about losing a loved one unexpectedly and coping with the grief that follows! Morgan loved her mother, even if her obsessive planning did annoy her a bit. So when she died unexpectedly of a lung problem on one of the hardest days of Morgan’s life, Morgan is devastated. She has to do almost everything for her family. Morgan drops all of her after school activities, including soccer, to watch her younger siblings so he doesn’t have to pay for childcare. Throughout all of her grief, she has been bottling up all of her feelings, and then they all come out of her at once.
This was such a great book! Morgan was amazing and her siblings added just the right amount of humor. The grief was portrayed perfectly. I also loved the before and after sections which weren’t confusing, as other books can be. This should be read by any middle schooler or adult. Definitely looking forward for more of the author’s books in the future!
Grades 5+
This was such a great book about losing a loved one unexpectedly and coping with the grief that follows! Morgan loved her mother, even if her obsessive planning did annoy her a bit. So when she died unexpectedly of a lung problem on one of the hardest days of Morgan’s life, Morgan is devastated. She has to do almost everything for her family. Morgan drops all of her after school activities, including soccer, to watch her younger siblings so he doesn’t have to pay for childcare. Throughout all of her grief, she has been bottling up all of her feelings, and then they all come out of her at once.
This was such a great book! Morgan was amazing and her siblings added just the right amount of humor. The grief was portrayed perfectly. I also loved the before and after sections which weren’t confusing, as other books can be. This should be read by any middle schooler or adult. Definitely looking forward for more of the author’s books in the future!
Grades 5+
August 22, 2021
Lemon Drop Falls is a book that will grab readers and not let them go. There are so many feelings that the main character Morgan has about her family, friends, and all the things that she's juggling and author Heather Clark does an excellent job of making it real. As Morgan navigates a sudden loss along with entering junior high, the reader shifts back and forth between the past and the present, reminding us of how they are inextricably intertwined. Clark also writes about Morgan's anxiety so accurately. This book will be one that middle grade readers will see themselves in and enjoy. Thank you to Jolly Fish Press and #netgalley for the eARC! Don't miss this one!
December 7, 2022
An excellent story with well-drawn characters and a great balance of adventure and introspection. Morgan is a wonderful protagonist; she’s smart and independent and strong, but she’s also vulnerable and sad and stubborn. Her grief and her anxiety are handled well, and I appreciate the way this book normalizes mental illness. At times, the writing is a bit sentimental, but it would definitely appeal to a preteen’s love of drama.
January 21, 2023
I could not put this book down! I laughed and cried (mostly cried) through the whole thing.
Morgan and her family are dealing with the loss of her mother. Morgan also has anxiety, so after she overhears a heartbreaking conversation between her grandmother and her dad she decides that she has to pick up the slack in her family and make everything work.
This was so well done! I loved every second of it!
Morgan and her family are dealing with the loss of her mother. Morgan also has anxiety, so after she overhears a heartbreaking conversation between her grandmother and her dad she decides that she has to pick up the slack in her family and make everything work.
This was so well done! I loved every second of it!
February 18, 2022
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Lemon Drop Falls
Author: Heather Clark
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4.5/5
Diversity: POC side characters
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, contemporary, mental health, camping, grief processing
Publication Date: February 14, 2022
Genre: MG Contemporary
Age Relevance: 10+ (parental death, grief, depression, anxiety, panic attack, parentification, trauma)
Explanation of Above: The book focuses on the MC who witnessed her mother’s death, which is detailed later in the book. The book discusses depression, anxiety, and shows three panic attacks. The book also goes into detail about trauma and grief. There is also partification shown in the book, in which the MC is forced to take on a parent role around her younger siblings and father.
Publisher: North Star Editions
Pages: 256
Synopsis: Morgan is devastated by her mother’s sudden death. Before, Mom’s amazing organizational skills kept the family on track, and her bowl of lemon drops was always on hand to make difficult conversations easy, turning life’s sour into sweet. After, there’s no one to help Morgan navigate her new role caring for her younger siblings, her worries about starting junior high, and her increasingly confusing friendships. All she can do is try to fulfill her mother’s final request: Keep them safe, Morgan. Be brave for them. Help them be happy.
When Dad insists on taking the family on their regular summer camping trip, and Morgan’s efforts to keep her promise to Mom seem doomed to fail, Morgan’s anxiety spirals into a panic attack, and Dad treats her like she’s impossibly broken. Unable to share her fears and needs with Dad, and desperate to prove she’s got the strength to hold the family together, Morgan sets off alone to hike a flooding canyon trail. But somewhere on that lonely and dangerous journey, Morgan will encounter the truth about the final words her mother left her, the power in finding her own voice, and the possibility of new beginnings.
Review: I really liked this book! I loved how well the author described depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and grief. The book did well to discuss them in a sensitive manner and was very helpful to me in helping me with my anxiety, but also could be very helpful to younger readers to help them understand their own mental health and how to deal with big feelings and conflicting issues. The characters were well developed, the world building was well done, and the writing itself was amazing. I also loved the plot and wanted more and more as I went on.
The only issue I had with the book was one line that a side character said. The character stated something along the lines that boys and girls pair up, that’s what they do. The line wasn’t really challenged and the book didn’t contain any 2SLGBT+ pairings. While it’s not required that the book should have contained that, I felt like the line was a slight at 2SLGBT+ relationships and people. It’s not a big part of the book, but it made me pause and question the author as to why they would include that. The book is enjoyable otherwise, but if you’re reading this to your little one you just might want to be aware of that and to teach them better accordingly.
Verdict: I need a lemon drop to discuss my feelings of love on this book please =)
Book: Lemon Drop Falls
Author: Heather Clark
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4.5/5
Diversity: POC side characters
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, contemporary, mental health, camping, grief processing
Publication Date: February 14, 2022
Genre: MG Contemporary
Age Relevance: 10+ (parental death, grief, depression, anxiety, panic attack, parentification, trauma)
Explanation of Above: The book focuses on the MC who witnessed her mother’s death, which is detailed later in the book. The book discusses depression, anxiety, and shows three panic attacks. The book also goes into detail about trauma and grief. There is also partification shown in the book, in which the MC is forced to take on a parent role around her younger siblings and father.
Publisher: North Star Editions
Pages: 256
Synopsis: Morgan is devastated by her mother’s sudden death. Before, Mom’s amazing organizational skills kept the family on track, and her bowl of lemon drops was always on hand to make difficult conversations easy, turning life’s sour into sweet. After, there’s no one to help Morgan navigate her new role caring for her younger siblings, her worries about starting junior high, and her increasingly confusing friendships. All she can do is try to fulfill her mother’s final request: Keep them safe, Morgan. Be brave for them. Help them be happy.
When Dad insists on taking the family on their regular summer camping trip, and Morgan’s efforts to keep her promise to Mom seem doomed to fail, Morgan’s anxiety spirals into a panic attack, and Dad treats her like she’s impossibly broken. Unable to share her fears and needs with Dad, and desperate to prove she’s got the strength to hold the family together, Morgan sets off alone to hike a flooding canyon trail. But somewhere on that lonely and dangerous journey, Morgan will encounter the truth about the final words her mother left her, the power in finding her own voice, and the possibility of new beginnings.
Review: I really liked this book! I loved how well the author described depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and grief. The book did well to discuss them in a sensitive manner and was very helpful to me in helping me with my anxiety, but also could be very helpful to younger readers to help them understand their own mental health and how to deal with big feelings and conflicting issues. The characters were well developed, the world building was well done, and the writing itself was amazing. I also loved the plot and wanted more and more as I went on.
The only issue I had with the book was one line that a side character said. The character stated something along the lines that boys and girls pair up, that’s what they do. The line wasn’t really challenged and the book didn’t contain any 2SLGBT+ pairings. While it’s not required that the book should have contained that, I felt like the line was a slight at 2SLGBT+ relationships and people. It’s not a big part of the book, but it made me pause and question the author as to why they would include that. The book is enjoyable otherwise, but if you’re reading this to your little one you just might want to be aware of that and to teach them better accordingly.
Verdict: I need a lemon drop to discuss my feelings of love on this book please =)
March 28, 2024
What worked:
Grief is a major topic as Morgan struggles to fill the role of her deceased mother. Morgan feels it’s her responsibility to keep the family safe and happy and she is very concerned about adding stress to her father’s life. Her mother always created ABC plans to keep homelife organized and Morgan tries to maintain that level of structure. Hiding her true feelings inside puts her under tremendous pressure but she can’t let anyone, especially her father, think she’s having problems.
The author shares past events and the present by using the mother’s death as an anchor point. Some chapters are labeled “Before” while others are labeled “After” to differentiate their focuses. The author uses an interesting technique to connect them by starting many chapters with phrases or words that are repeated from the last sentences of the preceding chapters. The flashbacks show how Morgan’s mother holds the family and friends together so her loss is especially devastating. Clues are dropped that indicate all is not well with her and there are other vague references to events preceding her death. Something happens between Morgan and her mother but readers must speculate about the details until much later in the book.
The story takes place as Morgan is preparing to start middle school and seventh grade. Her mother’s death complicates the transition but relationships with Morgan’s two closest friends are changing too. Morgan isn’t happy with how a new girl is influencing her BFF, Keilani, as their interactions become more strained. Also, Hrishi might be liking Morgan as more than just a friend and she isn’t sure how she feels about that. Her mother’s not there to counsel her on natural “girl” things, like buying a proper bra, and her dad seems too overwhelmed to notice. Many middle-grade female readers should be able to find connections with Morgan’s character.
What didn’t work as well:
The author has written a tale full of feelings as Morgan struggles to make sense of the changes in her life. There are pleasant memories from the past until she remembers her mom is dead. This results in a melancholy tone throughout much of the book until Morgan realizes Plan B doesn’t need to last forever.
The final verdict:
The author tenderly deals with Morgan’s emotional trauma as readers accompany her on the trials of moving forward in life. Lemon drops and the battle with anxiety are drawn from the author’s life experiences and her range of feelings are incorporated clearly into the story. She compassionately addresses sensitive topics and I recommend you give this book a shot.
Grief is a major topic as Morgan struggles to fill the role of her deceased mother. Morgan feels it’s her responsibility to keep the family safe and happy and she is very concerned about adding stress to her father’s life. Her mother always created ABC plans to keep homelife organized and Morgan tries to maintain that level of structure. Hiding her true feelings inside puts her under tremendous pressure but she can’t let anyone, especially her father, think she’s having problems.
The author shares past events and the present by using the mother’s death as an anchor point. Some chapters are labeled “Before” while others are labeled “After” to differentiate their focuses. The author uses an interesting technique to connect them by starting many chapters with phrases or words that are repeated from the last sentences of the preceding chapters. The flashbacks show how Morgan’s mother holds the family and friends together so her loss is especially devastating. Clues are dropped that indicate all is not well with her and there are other vague references to events preceding her death. Something happens between Morgan and her mother but readers must speculate about the details until much later in the book.
The story takes place as Morgan is preparing to start middle school and seventh grade. Her mother’s death complicates the transition but relationships with Morgan’s two closest friends are changing too. Morgan isn’t happy with how a new girl is influencing her BFF, Keilani, as their interactions become more strained. Also, Hrishi might be liking Morgan as more than just a friend and she isn’t sure how she feels about that. Her mother’s not there to counsel her on natural “girl” things, like buying a proper bra, and her dad seems too overwhelmed to notice. Many middle-grade female readers should be able to find connections with Morgan’s character.
What didn’t work as well:
The author has written a tale full of feelings as Morgan struggles to make sense of the changes in her life. There are pleasant memories from the past until she remembers her mom is dead. This results in a melancholy tone throughout much of the book until Morgan realizes Plan B doesn’t need to last forever.
The final verdict:
The author tenderly deals with Morgan’s emotional trauma as readers accompany her on the trials of moving forward in life. Lemon drops and the battle with anxiety are drawn from the author’s life experiences and her range of feelings are incorporated clearly into the story. She compassionately addresses sensitive topics and I recommend you give this book a shot.
January 26, 2022
Before, everything was perfectly planned, prepared, and managed; so what happens after, when all of those plans have fallen apart? Twelve-year-old Morgan is struggling to find balance after having unexpectedly lost her mother at the end of the previous school year. And when her dad ultimately needs to go back to work, Morgan is left picking up the pieces and caring for her two younger siblings mostly on her own. With the next school year rapidly approaching, Morgan does her best to channel her mother and procure school supplies and clothes, but her father has other ideas. A spontaneous family trip to Capitol Reef derails Morgan's best laid plans, proving that with a little love, happiness can still be found even in the darkest of moments.
Told from Morgan's first-person perspective, this story eloquently describes the depth of the emotion she feels after her mother's passing. A series of flashbacks gives readers a sense of what life was like when Morgan’s mother was still alive, when Morgan's world made sense and she had two best friends she could count on. Lists, plans, and lemon drops defined her mother's personality, and both the presence and the absence of those things now throw everything in Morgan's life out of whack. As Morgan attempts to fill the void her mother left behind, she begins by mirroring her mother's behavior before ultimately budding into her own unique self.
This story does an excellent job of introducing a variety of familiar, dynamic characters against a backdrop that gives the plot structure and focus. Memories of the past add humor and levity to an otherwise heartbreaking circumstance, and middle school and sibling interactions enhance the accessibility of the narrative. With lemon drops as a frequent reference, both the characters and the readers are reminded that sometimes life must be sour before it can be sweet, which is a beautifully executed metaphor through the novel as a whole.
Middle grade readers will easily connect with Morgan and her challenges, even if they have not experienced any of them themselves. Transitioning to adolescence is hard enough without one's mother dying, yet Morgan manages to handle her own transformation with grace. Her reactions are believable and expected given her circumstances, and readers will feel Morgan's catharsis alongside her. Deeply heartfelt and highly engaging, this story is an important coming-of-age novel for readers of all ages and especially for those preparing for middle school. It is a highly recommended addition to library collections for young readers.
Told from Morgan's first-person perspective, this story eloquently describes the depth of the emotion she feels after her mother's passing. A series of flashbacks gives readers a sense of what life was like when Morgan’s mother was still alive, when Morgan's world made sense and she had two best friends she could count on. Lists, plans, and lemon drops defined her mother's personality, and both the presence and the absence of those things now throw everything in Morgan's life out of whack. As Morgan attempts to fill the void her mother left behind, she begins by mirroring her mother's behavior before ultimately budding into her own unique self.
This story does an excellent job of introducing a variety of familiar, dynamic characters against a backdrop that gives the plot structure and focus. Memories of the past add humor and levity to an otherwise heartbreaking circumstance, and middle school and sibling interactions enhance the accessibility of the narrative. With lemon drops as a frequent reference, both the characters and the readers are reminded that sometimes life must be sour before it can be sweet, which is a beautifully executed metaphor through the novel as a whole.
Middle grade readers will easily connect with Morgan and her challenges, even if they have not experienced any of them themselves. Transitioning to adolescence is hard enough without one's mother dying, yet Morgan manages to handle her own transformation with grace. Her reactions are believable and expected given her circumstances, and readers will feel Morgan's catharsis alongside her. Deeply heartfelt and highly engaging, this story is an important coming-of-age novel for readers of all ages and especially for those preparing for middle school. It is a highly recommended addition to library collections for young readers.
January 7, 2022
Read thanks to NetGalley :D (English below!)
Una lectura hermosa.
Un middle grade que trata sobre el duelo, la madurez prematura, lo duro de las amistades, los primeros enamoramientos y la adolescencia de una forma muy, muy apropiada para el público objetivo y tbh también para nosotres, les adultes.
La pluma de la autora hace de esta historia algo tanto emocionalmente inteligente como emotivo, y es muy fácil identificarse con Morgan, la protagonista, incluso si no pasaste por lo que ella pasó, desde perder a su madre a tan corta edad (tanto ella como su madre) como tener que cuidar de sus hermanitos desde entonces. También me encantó el personaje del papá, algo que no siempre pasa en este tipo de libros. A veces les autores escriben a les xadres como gente egoísta y ausentes por las peores razones y sin un redemption arc, pero el papá de Morgan simplemente está en shock. Tiene que cuidar de sus tres hijos con un trabajo que no le paga lo suficiente después de que el amor de su vida muriera sorpresivamente... él no es perfecto y la autora sabe describir esto perfectamente.
Me encantó leerlo y lloré en varias partes, je.
Such a lovely read!
A middle grade that tackles grief, premature coming-of-age, the hard parts of friendship, first crushes and growing up in a very, very proper way for its factual readers and also for us adults.
The author's narration makes this story both emotionally intelligent and emotional, and Morgan, its main character, is extremely relatable even if you haven't gone through what she has, losing her mother at such a young age and taking care of her siblings. I also loved the character of their dad, something that doesn't always happen in these kind of books. Sometimes authors write parents as selfish and self-absorbed for the wrong reasons and without a redemption arc, but Morgan's dad is just... shocked. Having to take care of three kids with a job that doesn't pay enough after the love of his life suddenly died... he's not perfect and the author describes this situation perfectly.
Loved reading it and cried a few times as well, heh.
Una lectura hermosa.
Un middle grade que trata sobre el duelo, la madurez prematura, lo duro de las amistades, los primeros enamoramientos y la adolescencia de una forma muy, muy apropiada para el público objetivo y tbh también para nosotres, les adultes.
La pluma de la autora hace de esta historia algo tanto emocionalmente inteligente como emotivo, y es muy fácil identificarse con Morgan, la protagonista, incluso si no pasaste por lo que ella pasó, desde perder a su madre a tan corta edad (tanto ella como su madre) como tener que cuidar de sus hermanitos desde entonces. También me encantó el personaje del papá, algo que no siempre pasa en este tipo de libros. A veces les autores escriben a les xadres como gente egoísta y ausentes por las peores razones y sin un redemption arc, pero el papá de Morgan simplemente está en shock. Tiene que cuidar de sus tres hijos con un trabajo que no le paga lo suficiente después de que el amor de su vida muriera sorpresivamente... él no es perfecto y la autora sabe describir esto perfectamente.
Me encantó leerlo y lloré en varias partes, je.
Such a lovely read!
A middle grade that tackles grief, premature coming-of-age, the hard parts of friendship, first crushes and growing up in a very, very proper way for its factual readers and also for us adults.
The author's narration makes this story both emotionally intelligent and emotional, and Morgan, its main character, is extremely relatable even if you haven't gone through what she has, losing her mother at such a young age and taking care of her siblings. I also loved the character of their dad, something that doesn't always happen in these kind of books. Sometimes authors write parents as selfish and self-absorbed for the wrong reasons and without a redemption arc, but Morgan's dad is just... shocked. Having to take care of three kids with a job that doesn't pay enough after the love of his life suddenly died... he's not perfect and the author describes this situation perfectly.
Loved reading it and cried a few times as well, heh.
March 10, 2024
What a powerful story of love, loss, hurt, friendship, and navigating change.
With the sudden death of her mom, Morgan feels compelled to hold her family together- and that she has to be ‘fine’ for everyone else. However, she is not fine. Her best friendships are changing, her body is changing, she can’t play soccer with her team anymore, and is responsible for her 2 younger siblings.
Her mom was very organized and she tries so hard to be like her, all while resenting the things she taught- plan A, B, and all the way to D… disaster.
The Lemon Drop concept is absolutely beautiful-
“In our house when someone said "lemon drop" all heavy like that, they meant more than just candy. Mom always said difficult conversations were like lemon drops-sour at first, but soon becoming sweet, easier to handle.”
“Mom always said you can do a lot of things when you have no other choice.”
"Plan B, was never intended to be a place to stay. Plan B is a place of transition and transformation, a safe place to rest while we're hurting."
"It's a place for reaching out to people who love us, so they can help find solutions, It's more than just a soft landing when you fall from Plan A. Plan B is the launching pad you use to propel yourself to something brand new. To a New Plan A. And your New Plan A will hold possibilities you may never have imagined. Plan B only exists to help us reach a new Plan A."
Amazing concept, beautifully written, and unfolded a little at a time. I absolutely loved the alternating chapter format of ‘before’ and ‘after’ the death of her mother. It seems to soften and unfold it gently.
Is it sad? Definitely. But is it beautiful? Absolutely. It will stay with you and warm you. It will help you understand feelings in a new way, and realize that adults don’t have it all together either.
Death, anxiety, depression, and friend drama is all a part of the story. They’re handled well, and resolved by communication and believing in those you love and that love you.
With the sudden death of her mom, Morgan feels compelled to hold her family together- and that she has to be ‘fine’ for everyone else. However, she is not fine. Her best friendships are changing, her body is changing, she can’t play soccer with her team anymore, and is responsible for her 2 younger siblings.
Her mom was very organized and she tries so hard to be like her, all while resenting the things she taught- plan A, B, and all the way to D… disaster.
The Lemon Drop concept is absolutely beautiful-
“In our house when someone said "lemon drop" all heavy like that, they meant more than just candy. Mom always said difficult conversations were like lemon drops-sour at first, but soon becoming sweet, easier to handle.”
“Mom always said you can do a lot of things when you have no other choice.”
"Plan B, was never intended to be a place to stay. Plan B is a place of transition and transformation, a safe place to rest while we're hurting."
"It's a place for reaching out to people who love us, so they can help find solutions, It's more than just a soft landing when you fall from Plan A. Plan B is the launching pad you use to propel yourself to something brand new. To a New Plan A. And your New Plan A will hold possibilities you may never have imagined. Plan B only exists to help us reach a new Plan A."
Amazing concept, beautifully written, and unfolded a little at a time. I absolutely loved the alternating chapter format of ‘before’ and ‘after’ the death of her mother. It seems to soften and unfold it gently.
Is it sad? Definitely. But is it beautiful? Absolutely. It will stay with you and warm you. It will help you understand feelings in a new way, and realize that adults don’t have it all together either.
Death, anxiety, depression, and friend drama is all a part of the story. They’re handled well, and resolved by communication and believing in those you love and that love you.
February 10, 2022
As the main character, Morgan was perfect. Her voice was something that I found myself relating to and wanting to read more of but at the same time the right age for the book. Something true for all the characters, they all felt that they were the age they were. Janie and Budge felt like annoying younger siblings while Morgan, Keilani, Mackelle, and Hrishi all felt like they were twelve. All the characters had wonderful depths to them and I might've gotten very emotional when I read the scene between Morgan and her Dad as it was jsut perfect. These characters were jsut wonderful and I really loved how they developed too.
The plot was well handled but the main driving force of this book was the characters and their reactions to the death of Eve, Morgan's mother. Reaching the height of Morgan's both physical and mental journey that happens in the latter half of the story. The dual timelines simply labeled before and after helped bring clarity to the narrative as well as providing a nice contrast up until they ultimately collided into now at the end of the book. It was emotional in all the right places whilst being fun in others and whilst I only cried once throughout, it did being me to tears on several other occasions. A beautiful story that I honestly think all ages could learn from.
The writing that tied it all together was brilliant. As I have already mentioned the characters were perfectly written and the story well crafted and emotional. If I was a bit unsure of this book at the beginning I was completely sold by the end of it. This book was simply wonderful.
I was sent a copy of this book as part of a blog tour in exchange for an honest review.
The plot was well handled but the main driving force of this book was the characters and their reactions to the death of Eve, Morgan's mother. Reaching the height of Morgan's both physical and mental journey that happens in the latter half of the story. The dual timelines simply labeled before and after helped bring clarity to the narrative as well as providing a nice contrast up until they ultimately collided into now at the end of the book. It was emotional in all the right places whilst being fun in others and whilst I only cried once throughout, it did being me to tears on several other occasions. A beautiful story that I honestly think all ages could learn from.
The writing that tied it all together was brilliant. As I have already mentioned the characters were perfectly written and the story well crafted and emotional. If I was a bit unsure of this book at the beginning I was completely sold by the end of it. This book was simply wonderful.
I was sent a copy of this book as part of a blog tour in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2022
Lemon Drop Falls is a story about a girl who lost her mother. A story about a family who lost their compass and now they are learning to exit without their biggest supporter and best friend. The story has two timelines, the first is before the death of the mother and the second after that. In the first timeline, we learn about their family habits, how their relationship was, how a mother with 3 kids manages to be there for all of them. The focus is on the big sister, who is 12 years old and everything changed in her social life. Boys are no longer just friends, the soccer team becomes more competitive, her best friend has a new best friend and she doesn’t understand why all these things can’t remain the same as last year.
The lemon drop is a strategy when everyone can come and take one lemon candy and the mother will understand that they need to talk about something that upset them. This is where the author introduces a piece of really good advice if you can explain your problem, talk about it… your problem becomes easier. And one of the favorite things that the mum likes to do… is to create an ABC plan.
When the plan falls
The ABC plans are used for everything. For example, plan A is your team is gonna win the soccer game. But that doesn’t happen so you need the B plan which is karaoke and good food. The C plan is something you don’t want to need. And after their mother’s day, all is left is a B plan when the biggest child tries everything to be like her mother because of „the fog”, something that their dad has in his eyes. Something that keeps him ignorant about a lot of their problems.
The second timeline, after the tragic moment, is about grief and learning how to exit without an important piece of your life. This is my favorite part of the story. It is ugly, is sad and it helps you realize that you are not invincible, those bad things can happen to you even you have the perfect plan. I love the way that the author created the image of a lemon drop falls, how much the girl needed it and how afraid she was because of that. The dynamic between the children and the dad, how the girl taught she was doing good, how the father was afraid for her but didn’t dare to speak, all of these things make the characters more human and easier to understand.
The lemon drop is a strategy when everyone can come and take one lemon candy and the mother will understand that they need to talk about something that upset them. This is where the author introduces a piece of really good advice if you can explain your problem, talk about it… your problem becomes easier. And one of the favorite things that the mum likes to do… is to create an ABC plan.
When the plan falls
The ABC plans are used for everything. For example, plan A is your team is gonna win the soccer game. But that doesn’t happen so you need the B plan which is karaoke and good food. The C plan is something you don’t want to need. And after their mother’s day, all is left is a B plan when the biggest child tries everything to be like her mother because of „the fog”, something that their dad has in his eyes. Something that keeps him ignorant about a lot of their problems.
The second timeline, after the tragic moment, is about grief and learning how to exit without an important piece of your life. This is my favorite part of the story. It is ugly, is sad and it helps you realize that you are not invincible, those bad things can happen to you even you have the perfect plan. I love the way that the author created the image of a lemon drop falls, how much the girl needed it and how afraid she was because of that. The dynamic between the children and the dad, how the girl taught she was doing good, how the father was afraid for her but didn’t dare to speak, all of these things make the characters more human and easier to understand.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews