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Mary Underwater
Inspired by Joan of Arc, a girl builds and pilots a submarine to prove just what girls can do in Mary Underwater , a masterful middle-grade debut from Shannon Doleski.
Mary Murphy feels like she’s drowning. Her violent father is home from prison, and the social worker is suspicious of her new bruises. An aunt she’s never met keeps calling. And if she can’t get a good grade on her science project, she’ll fail her favorite class.
But Mary doesn’t want to be a victim anymore. She has a Build a real submarine, like the model she’s been making with Kip Dwyer, the secretly sweet class clown. Gaining courage from her heroine, Joan of Arc, Mary vows to pilot a sub across the Chesapeake Bay, risking her life in a modern crusade to save herself.
Mary Underwater is an empowering tale of persistence, heroism, and hope from a luminous new voice in middle-grade fiction.
“This is perfect for readers not quite ready for Laurie Halse Anderson and anyone who needs a reminder that there’s always hope.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (Starred Review)
Mary Murphy feels like she’s drowning. Her violent father is home from prison, and the social worker is suspicious of her new bruises. An aunt she’s never met keeps calling. And if she can’t get a good grade on her science project, she’ll fail her favorite class.
But Mary doesn’t want to be a victim anymore. She has a Build a real submarine, like the model she’s been making with Kip Dwyer, the secretly sweet class clown. Gaining courage from her heroine, Joan of Arc, Mary vows to pilot a sub across the Chesapeake Bay, risking her life in a modern crusade to save herself.
Mary Underwater is an empowering tale of persistence, heroism, and hope from a luminous new voice in middle-grade fiction.
“This is perfect for readers not quite ready for Laurie Halse Anderson and anyone who needs a reminder that there’s always hope.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (Starred Review)
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2020
10 people are currently reading
975 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Doleski
2 books41 followersShannon Doleski was born and raised in Cazenovia, New York. After graduating from Niagara University with a degree in English Education, Shannon was a high school and middle school teacher and swim coach in New York and Maryland. She lives in West Texas with her three children, a speckle-eared beagle, and an ornery dachshund.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
March 7, 2019
600 years ago, Joan of Arc got a raw deal. The legendary Roman Catholic saint was burned at the stake, a dire demise for a lady later canonized by the church. Absolutely nothing could remedy this grave injustice.
But Mary Underwater comes damn close.
This tale of a girl and her submarine goes deeper than any submersible ever could. This is the second book of Doleski's I've read, and she once again demonstrates a sense of economy when it comes to world building. She drops you in the Chesapeake Bay in half the time it takes most writers. She fills in the blanks occurring off-page or between chapters in such a way that the reader can picture exactly what transpired, without getting hit over the head with every excruciating beat.
Our MC, Murph, makes the story though, and hers is a story worth telling. Kids of all ages will fall for her, but especially those interested in STEM. Just don't be surprised when your kids set down their tablets and smart phones and ask for enough money to construct a functional submersible of their own.
But Mary Underwater comes damn close.
This tale of a girl and her submarine goes deeper than any submersible ever could. This is the second book of Doleski's I've read, and she once again demonstrates a sense of economy when it comes to world building. She drops you in the Chesapeake Bay in half the time it takes most writers. She fills in the blanks occurring off-page or between chapters in such a way that the reader can picture exactly what transpired, without getting hit over the head with every excruciating beat.
Our MC, Murph, makes the story though, and hers is a story worth telling. Kids of all ages will fall for her, but especially those interested in STEM. Just don't be surprised when your kids set down their tablets and smart phones and ask for enough money to construct a functional submersible of their own.
January 20, 2019
MARY UNDERWATER is a book that will steal you away into its gorgeous, sea-foamed setting as well as the brutal and beautiful life of Mary, our sweet and brave protagonist.
What I love most about Mary is her bravery and strength exist alongside qualities that are quiet, shy, even bashful at times. In a world where strength is measured by volume and aggression, I found it unbelievably refreshing to be reminded that sensitivity, too, is a superpower.
Mary’s touchstone throughout the book is the story of Joan of Arc, which parallels Mary’s own battle in an abusive household. Whereas Joan led an army to restore the French monarchy, Mary builds a sub and pilots it across Chesapeake Bay. I love that Mary’s adoration of STEM isn’t a big deal at all. It’s just a part of her, just like her love of Saint Joan, crab legs, and her best friend, Lydia.
MARY UNDERWATER also has the sweetest romance I’ve ever read in an MG novel, with Kip becoming one of my favorite characters from pretty much his first scene. He and Mary have an adorable connection, which left me laughing out loud and feeling wonderfully warm.
Doleski’s diction is crisp, dotted with stunning metaphors. The hometown is so vivid, it becomes a character to me, as well as one of my favorite parts of the book. As a result of all this gorgeous writing, MARY UNDERWATER stayed with me for days after I finished it. It’s just pure loveliness, the perfect read for when you’re in the mood for a bayside tale about a girl who, like a warrior riding into battle, insists on saving herself. (And who isn’t always in the mood for that?)
What I love most about Mary is her bravery and strength exist alongside qualities that are quiet, shy, even bashful at times. In a world where strength is measured by volume and aggression, I found it unbelievably refreshing to be reminded that sensitivity, too, is a superpower.
Mary’s touchstone throughout the book is the story of Joan of Arc, which parallels Mary’s own battle in an abusive household. Whereas Joan led an army to restore the French monarchy, Mary builds a sub and pilots it across Chesapeake Bay. I love that Mary’s adoration of STEM isn’t a big deal at all. It’s just a part of her, just like her love of Saint Joan, crab legs, and her best friend, Lydia.
MARY UNDERWATER also has the sweetest romance I’ve ever read in an MG novel, with Kip becoming one of my favorite characters from pretty much his first scene. He and Mary have an adorable connection, which left me laughing out loud and feeling wonderfully warm.
Doleski’s diction is crisp, dotted with stunning metaphors. The hometown is so vivid, it becomes a character to me, as well as one of my favorite parts of the book. As a result of all this gorgeous writing, MARY UNDERWATER stayed with me for days after I finished it. It’s just pure loveliness, the perfect read for when you’re in the mood for a bayside tale about a girl who, like a warrior riding into battle, insists on saving herself. (And who isn’t always in the mood for that?)
April 27, 2020
https://thecaffeinatedreader.com/2020...
Mary has a violent father, her mother doesn’t do anything to make her feel safe, and is a victim as well, but, when her father is back in the house from his prison sentence, Mary knows things should change.
She’s let her grades slip, fear has cultivated inside her and Doleski captures all this perfectly in such a poignant manner.
The best part of this is that Mary throws herself into a project, and, it’s a completely STEM book. Mary loves science and after a successful school experiment of building a model sub, she goes for the next step; build a submarine so she can pilot it across the Chesapeake Bay.
So, if you want an MG read that supports STEM learning with girls, has a cool submarine, tackles child abuse and the toll it has on the children and has a great cast of characters, I highly recommend this!
5/5 Cups of Coffee from me, definitely one of my favorite reads of the year.
Did I mention that Mary builds a submarine?
Content/Trigger Warnings: This does contain some scenes of child abuse.
Mary has a violent father, her mother doesn’t do anything to make her feel safe, and is a victim as well, but, when her father is back in the house from his prison sentence, Mary knows things should change.
She’s let her grades slip, fear has cultivated inside her and Doleski captures all this perfectly in such a poignant manner.
The best part of this is that Mary throws herself into a project, and, it’s a completely STEM book. Mary loves science and after a successful school experiment of building a model sub, she goes for the next step; build a submarine so she can pilot it across the Chesapeake Bay.
So, if you want an MG read that supports STEM learning with girls, has a cool submarine, tackles child abuse and the toll it has on the children and has a great cast of characters, I highly recommend this!
5/5 Cups of Coffee from me, definitely one of my favorite reads of the year.
Did I mention that Mary builds a submarine?
Content/Trigger Warnings: This does contain some scenes of child abuse.
January 14, 2019
It's my book!!!
December 19, 2018
Ahhh! I'm experiencing a serious book hangover. I was extremely lucky to have been given the opportunity to read this before it hits the shelves in 2020. Doleski does an exceptional job straddling that gray area between upper-MG and lower-YA. The story was a perfect equation of swoony romance + whip-smart humor + baddass STEM-ness + unexpected adventure + Catholic school girl guilt + complicated family dynamics. I highly recommend this un-put-down-able book to both MG and lower-YA readers as well their parents and anyone who loves contemporary MG stories.
May 19, 2024
This book takes on the hard topic of having an abusive parent which can lead a child to feeling stuck, alone and that the weight of the world on their shoulders. Mary is extremely well written and I really enjoyed watching her grow and gain some confidence. It also included a cute love story between Mary and Kip and the navigation of a first love.
April 18, 2019
This is my favorite kind of middle grade- a perfect mix of lightness and depth (pun entirely intended). I'm so excited I got to read an early copy :)
January 12, 2019
I was lucky enough to read this heartwarming debut by Shannon and it did not disappoint. Mary Underwater is a story about a girl who decides to do the unexpected, build a submarine. With the help of her crush, Kip (a boy that will have you grinning with his hilarious quips), and a submarine scientist, Mary sets off on her adventure.
Mary perfectly captures the emotions of a young teen girl navigating unfamiliar waters, from the glimmer of first love all the way to evolving friendships. Despite the obstacles that stand in her way, such as her painful home life, Mary finds the strength and determination to overcome them. I loved the facts Mary shared about Joan of Arc at the beginning of each chapter, and how they mirrored the challenges Mary faced in her own life. This story will inspire both boys and girls to get out there and pursue those dreams and aspirations they might have otherwise thought too difficult.
Mary Underwater reminded me a lot of one of my all-time favorite reads, Chasing Redbird by Sharon Creech. Both are stories about girls out to prove to the world that they can do hard things and to never underestimate them. Make sure to have some tissues close by, I definitely shed a few tears while reading this beautiful debut. I can’t wait until everyone else can get their hands on it!
Mary perfectly captures the emotions of a young teen girl navigating unfamiliar waters, from the glimmer of first love all the way to evolving friendships. Despite the obstacles that stand in her way, such as her painful home life, Mary finds the strength and determination to overcome them. I loved the facts Mary shared about Joan of Arc at the beginning of each chapter, and how they mirrored the challenges Mary faced in her own life. This story will inspire both boys and girls to get out there and pursue those dreams and aspirations they might have otherwise thought too difficult.
Mary Underwater reminded me a lot of one of my all-time favorite reads, Chasing Redbird by Sharon Creech. Both are stories about girls out to prove to the world that they can do hard things and to never underestimate them. Make sure to have some tissues close by, I definitely shed a few tears while reading this beautiful debut. I can’t wait until everyone else can get their hands on it!
January 22, 2019
I had a chance to read this book pre-publication and I am so excited for readers to discover this amazing story! The prose is absolutely beautiful, lean and atmospheric and crusted in salt from the Bay. I loved Mary Murphy - I loved her determination, her fears, her passions, her unique viewpoint, and every time she didn't get a joke and got mad about it. I loved Kip, too, as the perfect foil to Mary's serious determination, the light-hearted, supportive love interest that saw in Mary what she couldn't always see in herself. And I loved getting to nerd out on all the submarine details. I am now fully convinced I can build a submersible for myself and pilot it to grand new adventures. Readers are going to love Murph and Kip as much as I do, I'm sure of it.
September 29, 2020
It started out great! Kip is so much fun, and I love that Mary goes to a Christian school. We need more Christians in literature! The plot went a little sour for me, though. Some of Mary's actions didn't match up with her personality, the dad was stereotypical, and the mom was flat. Also, candles (even special ones) don't give off oxygen. Fire always takes away oxygen. Period.
February 1, 2020
Pitch perfect, simultaneously sorrowful and hilarious Shannon Doleski's debut is essential reading. Mary Murphy's story is an unforgettable triumph. Utilizing Joan of Arc to showcase Mary's bravery Doleski deftly allows a glimpse into a world of a girl who just wants to feel loved and the lengths she will travel to have that acceptance. This book had me laughing and crying at the turn of a page - and is just so freaking special.
October 31, 2020
Wow. Wow. Wow. I've never read a book by Shannon Doleski before but I'm definitely open to picking up more from her.
Doleski does not manage to shy away from themes of domestic violence and all of the fall out that results from it. Not only does eighth grader Mary Murphy live her life in perpetual fear of her father but the cycle of abuse is further perpetuated by a mother that makes excuses for her father and blames everyone else for his choices. In addition, Mary's home life has affected her school work and her relationship with her best friend, whose mother has called CPS on Mary's father before. Mary's friendship is on the rocks and she has no one she can trust and confide in.
What Mary does have, though, is her childhood hero, Joan of Arc. She also has an admirer who would do anything just for a chance to hang out with her. And it turns out that she isn't as alone as she thought she was. She has a whole host of people who care about her and want her to have happiness, a concept she never believed she was entitled to before.
Although this book has low lows, it also has highs and readers are never left with a feeling of hopelessness and despair. Doleski seems to tackle serious issues with a deftness that less talented readers would lack.
Doleski does not manage to shy away from themes of domestic violence and all of the fall out that results from it. Not only does eighth grader Mary Murphy live her life in perpetual fear of her father but the cycle of abuse is further perpetuated by a mother that makes excuses for her father and blames everyone else for his choices. In addition, Mary's home life has affected her school work and her relationship with her best friend, whose mother has called CPS on Mary's father before. Mary's friendship is on the rocks and she has no one she can trust and confide in.
What Mary does have, though, is her childhood hero, Joan of Arc. She also has an admirer who would do anything just for a chance to hang out with her. And it turns out that she isn't as alone as she thought she was. She has a whole host of people who care about her and want her to have happiness, a concept she never believed she was entitled to before.
Although this book has low lows, it also has highs and readers are never left with a feeling of hopelessness and despair. Doleski seems to tackle serious issues with a deftness that less talented readers would lack.
September 24, 2020
3.5 STARS
Mary Murphy’s fears of her abusive father, recently home from jail, cause her grades to drop. When she’s paired with Kip, an annoying classmate, for a STEM science project they decide to mark a submarine, which Mary decides she’ll use to escape her father.
MARY UNDERWATER is the story of an eighth grader who turns fourteen during the book, but her idea of building a submarine to run away isn’t something a young teenager would believe was a feasible plan, so older MG readers might not buy into the book. Though Shannon Doleski says she based the social worker in the story on her husband’s word, she presents an overly simplistic view on child protective services and custody.
Doleski’s above average writing and character building and the topic of domestic violence make MARY UNDERWATER a must add for classrooms and libraries, despite its flaws.
Mary Murphy’s fears of her abusive father, recently home from jail, cause her grades to drop. When she’s paired with Kip, an annoying classmate, for a STEM science project they decide to mark a submarine, which Mary decides she’ll use to escape her father.
MARY UNDERWATER is the story of an eighth grader who turns fourteen during the book, but her idea of building a submarine to run away isn’t something a young teenager would believe was a feasible plan, so older MG readers might not buy into the book. Though Shannon Doleski says she based the social worker in the story on her husband’s word, she presents an overly simplistic view on child protective services and custody.
Doleski’s above average writing and character building and the topic of domestic violence make MARY UNDERWATER a must add for classrooms and libraries, despite its flaws.
June 24, 2021
Such a believable quirky child, with a lovely supporting cast. I adore the consent baked into the romance, so steadily always there. I also live Mary's clarity of mind that the abuse she suffers is no one's fault but her father's, even tho it isn't that true to life I think it's worth it for the benefit of the reader. Also, I mean, who can resist a book where the queer librarian aunt saves the day? Not this queer librarian.
That said, I gave it 4 instead of 5 stars because I really wish I knew more about submarines after reading a book where the kid obsessively builds submarines. Why no technicalities? I know so much now about Joan of Arc, why not similar riffs on the character's other primary interest? I also felt the ending was a bit too neat, even tho I appreciated the happiness.
That said, I gave it 4 instead of 5 stars because I really wish I knew more about submarines after reading a book where the kid obsessively builds submarines. Why no technicalities? I know so much now about Joan of Arc, why not similar riffs on the character's other primary interest? I also felt the ending was a bit too neat, even tho I appreciated the happiness.
April 14, 2020
I LOVED this one. You know how people are always saying we need more books in that space between MG and YA? This is it! The romance in this one was SO sweet, and I was rooting so hard for Mary and Kip (he is my fav.) I read this one fast and was on the edge of my seat to see if/how she would be able to succeed with the submersible. Really enjoyed--kids really need more stories like this. Mary was very determined and brave. Oh, and the Joan of Arc info scattered in was BRILLIANT. Love the tone it gave the book, and it was really interesting to learn about
January 12, 2022
First of all, this book deals with a character who's being physically and verbally abused. Her story is one of amazing resilience, determination, finding allies and being brave in standing up to her abuser, her father. Pull up a box of tissues, because within 20 pages I was balling like an infant and I couldn't stop the tears. No child deserves to be treated like this, ever. No excuses.
Mary Murphy's father's been in prison, and while he's gone, she's blossomed. She can actually breathe. She takes refuge in the story of Joan of Arc. She and a boy from school plan a science project, to build a submarine. But once her father's out and home again, she's quickly unable to escape.
She and the boy get caught trying to sneak a peek of a decommissioned sub on a nearby base, as a "first date," of all things, and her father beats her. Bruises her eye and her abdomen. She misses a few days of school, pulls her hair over her face and says she "fell." She fails a test. Her best friend takes her aside and covers the purple in makeup, but it's still obvious what her father's done. The principal calls her in and has her talk to her social worker. This has happened before.
There's a kind aunt, who's married to another woman, that her father doesn't like. Still, the aunt takes Mary under her wing at the local library and gets Mary a summer job once school's out.
Mary needs the money, because she's sinking all of it into her escape: an actual sub she's building with help from a retired sub engineer out of a used propane tank.
I won't spoil how it ends, or how she gets away. And please, please read the author's note in the back, about how dangerous it is to confront your abuser. Escape, but don't do what Mary does, by going back into that environment. Ever. Once your'e out, stay out.
I would say enjoy, but it's not that kind of book. Instead, be thankful everyday if you live in a safe, secure home and know that not everyone enjoys that same privilege.
Looking for more book suggestions for your 7th/8th grade classroom and students?
Visit my blog for more great middle grade book recommendations, free teaching materials and fiction writing tips: https://amb.mystrikingly.com/
Mary Murphy's father's been in prison, and while he's gone, she's blossomed. She can actually breathe. She takes refuge in the story of Joan of Arc. She and a boy from school plan a science project, to build a submarine. But once her father's out and home again, she's quickly unable to escape.
She and the boy get caught trying to sneak a peek of a decommissioned sub on a nearby base, as a "first date," of all things, and her father beats her. Bruises her eye and her abdomen. She misses a few days of school, pulls her hair over her face and says she "fell." She fails a test. Her best friend takes her aside and covers the purple in makeup, but it's still obvious what her father's done. The principal calls her in and has her talk to her social worker. This has happened before.
There's a kind aunt, who's married to another woman, that her father doesn't like. Still, the aunt takes Mary under her wing at the local library and gets Mary a summer job once school's out.
Mary needs the money, because she's sinking all of it into her escape: an actual sub she's building with help from a retired sub engineer out of a used propane tank.
I won't spoil how it ends, or how she gets away. And please, please read the author's note in the back, about how dangerous it is to confront your abuser. Escape, but don't do what Mary does, by going back into that environment. Ever. Once your'e out, stay out.
I would say enjoy, but it's not that kind of book. Instead, be thankful everyday if you live in a safe, secure home and know that not everyone enjoys that same privilege.
Looking for more book suggestions for your 7th/8th grade classroom and students?
Visit my blog for more great middle grade book recommendations, free teaching materials and fiction writing tips: https://amb.mystrikingly.com/
May 4, 2020
I loved this book. The writing is pristine, bright, and age-appropriate. The story has the perfect balance of emotional weight, gripping plot, and the sweetest middle grade romance I've ever read. I love the role of Joan of Arc as an inspirational figure for Mary in this story. The heavy elements of the plot were moving, and handled sensitively and responsibly. Highly recommended!
March 1, 2020
I loved everything about Mary Underwater. This book strikes a delicate balance between delightful and heartbreaking. It’s empowering, entertaining, and captivating from page one. I loved the Joan of Arc chapters and loved how Mary found strength and inspiration in both history and science. Highly recommend!
January 20, 2023
Sweet story, but difficult topic.
Mary’s story isn’t an easy one to read as she is abused and neglected and fights slowly to rectify her situation.
Mary’s story isn’t an easy one to read as she is abused and neglected and fights slowly to rectify her situation.
April 10, 2020
I read Mary Underwater sometime last year and I cannot believe I haven't written a review for this yet! This story is an excellent Upper Middle Grade story that sensitively explores themes of domestic violence, coming of age, first crushes and believing in oneself. This story has one of my all time favorite middle grade love interests in Kip, who is just written so wonderfully and brought to life in this story. His sense of humor is contagious and he is the perfect juxtaposition to Mary who is a bit more serious. This is a wonderful story for older MG readers who aren't quite ready for the more mature themes in a lot of YA novels.
January 12, 2020
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
This book and Mary have stolen my heart!
Mary is like so many children in society who hasn't got it easy. Mary is scared of change and what it might mean but learns that change can be a good thing.
Mary meets Kip who is such a fun loveable character, and they team up to make a real life sub after a STEM project.
The seaside setting is so encapturing to the imagination.
Kids will adore this book, it covers so much in an understanding and capturing way!
This book and Mary have stolen my heart!
Mary is like so many children in society who hasn't got it easy. Mary is scared of change and what it might mean but learns that change can be a good thing.
Mary meets Kip who is such a fun loveable character, and they team up to make a real life sub after a STEM project.
The seaside setting is so encapturing to the imagination.
Kids will adore this book, it covers so much in an understanding and capturing way!
January 16, 2022
i actually don't have any critiques for this book - the only reason it's not 5 stars is because it wasn't world changing and the target demographic is for middle graders so my reading style is a bit more mature. the entire novel flowed beautifully, the writing was detailed, the style was hopeful, the plot was tightly woven and the themes were at times dark but still beautiful, suffused with the innocence of adolescence.
July 28, 2025
This could have just been my state of mind or circumstantial but I thought this book was boring and I found it disappointing. It’s a hard read-one I don’t recommend for kids under 6th grade. There are depictions of a parent’s abuse and the beginnings of a romance (which is sweet.) The abuse, however make this a hard one to recommend.
July 1, 2020
This book has it all! Mary is courageous and smart. Her growth through the story will definitely help readers who are charting their own courses through rough waters. Plus the relationships she builds throughout the story are The Actual Best. I'm looking at you Kip.
Read
February 24, 2020A powerful, original story featuring a strong and memorable main character, fascinating STEM content, and THE BEST, most adorable banter I’ve ever read in an upper middle grade book. Love the way this story balances heavy content with hope and humor.
April 15, 2020
Loved the characters in this book. I could really picture them in my head, especially Kip - I wanted to constantly give him a hug:)
Mary was such a strong, brave character but I was getting so frustrated with her when she wouldn’t talk to Mr Harris about what was going on at home (which is a good thing when fictional characters make you feel things, right?) but was so glad how the book turned out and that she stood up for herself and ultimately had her happy ending.
I also enjoyed the little snippets about Joan of Arc because I honestly don’t know that much about her. I know my sons will enjoy that part when they read it, as well.
Mary was such a strong, brave character but I was getting so frustrated with her when she wouldn’t talk to Mr Harris about what was going on at home (which is a good thing when fictional characters make you feel things, right?) but was so glad how the book turned out and that she stood up for herself and ultimately had her happy ending.
I also enjoyed the little snippets about Joan of Arc because I honestly don’t know that much about her. I know my sons will enjoy that part when they read it, as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2021
This was nothing like I expected but it was a good surprise which I really enjoyed. Wonderful and also shocking in places but I think it was well-done. Made me tear up a few times.
February 12, 2023
Well-written characters with a story that sucked me right in. I loved the connection to Joan of Arc and I would recommend this book to others.
April 14, 2021
Mary is trying not to drown under the weight of it all. Mary's abusive father is back home from prison, Mary's grades at her Catholic school are slipping as she fights back the fear of her father, and Mary is avoiding her best friend whose family turned her father. When she learns about a science project that might help her save her grade, she discovers a passion for building a submarine and is partnered with Kip, the class clown who might just have a crush on her. This project and the arrival of her aunt might just be enough to keep her afloat.
Things I Liked: Mary is a strong female lead. I like the inclusion of her aunt, social worker, and best friend. Kip was terrific; I loved his character and the comedy and sweetness he brought to the story. Mary attends a Catholic school, and I don't read too many books with that element.
Other Thoughts: The Joan of Arc additions were a little distracting. There is also a scene toward the end where Mary does something that could possibly endanger herself. This is addressed in the author's note at the end, but I wish this scene was omitted.
Overall, the right readers will enjoy this book. It is a little quirky with the Joan of Arc stories and submarine building and that probably won't be for everyone.
I listened to the audio on Hoopla, and it was a fairly fast moving story (aside from the Joan of Arc times when I tried to listen to learn more about her, but then ended up distracted which is pretty much the norm anytime there is a small story within a story).
Sweet spot is probably 5th-7th grade. 3.5 stars
Things I Liked: Mary is a strong female lead. I like the inclusion of her aunt, social worker, and best friend. Kip was terrific; I loved his character and the comedy and sweetness he brought to the story. Mary attends a Catholic school, and I don't read too many books with that element.
Other Thoughts: The Joan of Arc additions were a little distracting. There is also a scene toward the end where Mary does something that could possibly endanger herself. This is addressed in the author's note at the end, but I wish this scene was omitted.
Overall, the right readers will enjoy this book. It is a little quirky with the Joan of Arc stories and submarine building and that probably won't be for everyone.
I listened to the audio on Hoopla, and it was a fairly fast moving story (aside from the Joan of Arc times when I tried to listen to learn more about her, but then ended up distracted which is pretty much the norm anytime there is a small story within a story).
Sweet spot is probably 5th-7th grade. 3.5 stars
August 13, 2020
Abusive Dad + Kip Dwyer + Murphy's Law = Mary Murphy! Mary Murphy is a courageous young lady and I hope to be like her when I grow up! Really enjoyed this book and can't wait for another book from Shannon Doleski!
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