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The Order of Things
A heart-rending novel-in-verse about a girl who must come to terms with the sudden death of her best friend.
Eleven-year-old April Jackson loves playing the drums, almost as much as she loves her best friend, Zee, a violin prodigy. They both dream of becoming professional musicians one day. When Zee starts attending a new school that will nurture his talent, April decides it’s time for her to pursue her dreams, too, and finally take drum lessons. She knows she isn’t very good to start, but with Zee’s support, she also knows someday she can be just as good as her hero, Sheila E., and travel all around the world with a pair of drumsticks in her hand.
When the unthinkable happens and Zee suddenly passes away, April is crushed by grief. Without Zee, nothing is the way it’s supposed to be. Zee's Dad isn't delivering the mail for his postal route like he should. April's Mom is suddenly dating someone new who is occupying too much space in their lives. And every time April tries to play the drums, all she can think about is Zee.
April isn't sure how to move on from the awful feeling of being without Zee. Desperate to help Papa Zee, she decides to secretly deliver the mail he’s been neglecting. But when on her route she discovers a classmate in trouble, she doesn’t second guess what she knows is the right thing to do.
Eleven-year-old April Jackson loves playing the drums, almost as much as she loves her best friend, Zee, a violin prodigy. They both dream of becoming professional musicians one day. When Zee starts attending a new school that will nurture his talent, April decides it’s time for her to pursue her dreams, too, and finally take drum lessons. She knows she isn’t very good to start, but with Zee’s support, she also knows someday she can be just as good as her hero, Sheila E., and travel all around the world with a pair of drumsticks in her hand.
When the unthinkable happens and Zee suddenly passes away, April is crushed by grief. Without Zee, nothing is the way it’s supposed to be. Zee's Dad isn't delivering the mail for his postal route like he should. April's Mom is suddenly dating someone new who is occupying too much space in their lives. And every time April tries to play the drums, all she can think about is Zee.
April isn't sure how to move on from the awful feeling of being without Zee. Desperate to help Papa Zee, she decides to secretly deliver the mail he’s been neglecting. But when on her route she discovers a classmate in trouble, she doesn’t second guess what she knows is the right thing to do.
269 pages, Hardcover
First published June 6, 2023
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February 23, 2023
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
April and Zee are more like family than friends. They live on the same floor of an apartment building in Boston, and frequently hang out at each other's places. Zee's mother is long gone, and his father, a postal worker, encourages his violin playing. April has never had a father in the picture, and her mother often works nights at a warehouse. She has recently started to bring a coworker, Robin, home for family dinners, and it seems odd to April to see her mother with someone. Zee is attending a performing arts school for 6th grade, so the two are not in school together for the first time. April wants to play the drums, but doesn't feel confident in her abilities, compared to Zee's talents with the violin. She's taken lessons, and even asked Zee's father to work with her. She tries to practice, and is slowly gaining a bit of skill, but something is wrong with Zee. He's often short of breath, and even passes out in the practice room at school. He tells April not to bother his father about it. When Zee dies of sudden cardiac arrest, everyone is devastated. Zee's father is inconsolable, and even stops delivering the mail, which April finds piled up in his apartment and decides to try to deliver by herself. While she is doing that, she realizes some of what is going on with her classmate, Asa, who is frequently absent and often looks uncared for. April's mother throws herself into work and takes comfort in Robin's presence. April just feels lost, and isn't quite sure how to handle her grief. How will April be able to continue with her life while still grieving her best friend?
Strengths: This novel in verse is particularly lyrical, and I loved the inclusion of April and Zee's musical aspirations. April's reluctance to play in public is realistic, and the tension created by Zee's abilities was intriguing. The idea of found families is a great thing to include in middle grade books, since so few of my students have traditional nuclear families. For those who want it, there is a lot of description of the funeral and the aftermath. Asa's story line about the problems her parents were having was compelling, and learning that she often stayed home from school to care for siblings is a sad reality for many middle school students. April's school was supportive, and she had some particularly understanding and helpful teachers.
Weaknesses: I am never a fan of grieving parents who completely fall apart, and I was particularly disturbed that Zee's father had mail that never got delivered. This issue is never resolved; he eventually leaves town after abruptly cleaning out the apartment.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who liked Geithner's If Only or Conklin's Counting Thyme.
April and Zee are more like family than friends. They live on the same floor of an apartment building in Boston, and frequently hang out at each other's places. Zee's mother is long gone, and his father, a postal worker, encourages his violin playing. April has never had a father in the picture, and her mother often works nights at a warehouse. She has recently started to bring a coworker, Robin, home for family dinners, and it seems odd to April to see her mother with someone. Zee is attending a performing arts school for 6th grade, so the two are not in school together for the first time. April wants to play the drums, but doesn't feel confident in her abilities, compared to Zee's talents with the violin. She's taken lessons, and even asked Zee's father to work with her. She tries to practice, and is slowly gaining a bit of skill, but something is wrong with Zee. He's often short of breath, and even passes out in the practice room at school. He tells April not to bother his father about it. When Zee dies of sudden cardiac arrest, everyone is devastated. Zee's father is inconsolable, and even stops delivering the mail, which April finds piled up in his apartment and decides to try to deliver by herself. While she is doing that, she realizes some of what is going on with her classmate, Asa, who is frequently absent and often looks uncared for. April's mother throws herself into work and takes comfort in Robin's presence. April just feels lost, and isn't quite sure how to handle her grief. How will April be able to continue with her life while still grieving her best friend?
Strengths: This novel in verse is particularly lyrical, and I loved the inclusion of April and Zee's musical aspirations. April's reluctance to play in public is realistic, and the tension created by Zee's abilities was intriguing. The idea of found families is a great thing to include in middle grade books, since so few of my students have traditional nuclear families. For those who want it, there is a lot of description of the funeral and the aftermath. Asa's story line about the problems her parents were having was compelling, and learning that she often stayed home from school to care for siblings is a sad reality for many middle school students. April's school was supportive, and she had some particularly understanding and helpful teachers.
Weaknesses: I am never a fan of grieving parents who completely fall apart, and I was particularly disturbed that Zee's father had mail that never got delivered. This issue is never resolved; he eventually leaves town after abruptly cleaning out the apartment.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who liked Geithner's If Only or Conklin's Counting Thyme.
April 16, 2024
Representation: Black characters
Trigger warnings: Death of a friend from a heart attack and another person in the past mentioned, grief and loss depiction
Score: Seven out of ten.
I did not know of The Order of Things by Kaija Langley until a few days ago when I briefly discovered it circling my recommendations. It was hard to get it as no library had this one physically but one had it in eBook form, so I picked it up. The blurb made it seem heartbreaking, and when I closed the final page, it delivered.
Trigger warnings: Death of a friend from a heart attack and another person in the past mentioned, grief and loss depiction
Score: Seven out of ten.
I did not know of The Order of Things by Kaija Langley until a few days ago when I briefly discovered it circling my recommendations. It was hard to get it as no library had this one physically but one had it in eBook form, so I picked it up. The blurb made it seem heartbreaking, and when I closed the final page, it delivered.
June 7, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin Young Readers Group, Nancy Paulsen Books, and Kaija Langley for the opportunity to read The Order of Things in exchange for an honest review.
One year, April gets a drum set for Christmas, while her best friend Zee gets a violin. April is interested and invested, but her practice and seriousness with the drums is on and off. Meanwhile, Zee, coming from a New Orleans family of musicians, is nearly a violin prodigy, practicing all day, every day.
When middle school comes, Zee ends up going to a local music school. Even though April and Zee now go to different schools, they still see each other every day, having lived across the hall from each other in their apartment budling since childhood.
One day, Zee starts having some medical issues, but he still plays his violin with severe seriousness, as his music is one of the most important things to him in life. After his loss (not a spoiler, as it is in the book blurb, but it doesn't happen until more than halfway through the book), April struggles to find friendship in her classmate Asa, or joy in playing the drums, not to mention her mom dating a new woman. There are too many things all happening so fast with what feels like little time to mourn or consider her own dreams.
April learns to follow her dreams, just like Zee did, and to take music seriously. So what is she is a girl? Girls can rock the drums, and she won't let that stop her once she finds a new motivation to play.
A brilliant novel-in-verse that explores friendship, the consequences of keeping secrets, and how to deal with grief for a middle grade audience. A lovely exploration on music and following ones dreams, excellent for any middle grade reader.
One year, April gets a drum set for Christmas, while her best friend Zee gets a violin. April is interested and invested, but her practice and seriousness with the drums is on and off. Meanwhile, Zee, coming from a New Orleans family of musicians, is nearly a violin prodigy, practicing all day, every day.
When middle school comes, Zee ends up going to a local music school. Even though April and Zee now go to different schools, they still see each other every day, having lived across the hall from each other in their apartment budling since childhood.
One day, Zee starts having some medical issues, but he still plays his violin with severe seriousness, as his music is one of the most important things to him in life. After his loss (not a spoiler, as it is in the book blurb, but it doesn't happen until more than halfway through the book), April struggles to find friendship in her classmate Asa, or joy in playing the drums, not to mention her mom dating a new woman. There are too many things all happening so fast with what feels like little time to mourn or consider her own dreams.
April learns to follow her dreams, just like Zee did, and to take music seriously. So what is she is a girl? Girls can rock the drums, and she won't let that stop her once she finds a new motivation to play.
A brilliant novel-in-verse that explores friendship, the consequences of keeping secrets, and how to deal with grief for a middle grade audience. A lovely exploration on music and following ones dreams, excellent for any middle grade reader.
August 20, 2023
This review is for the audiobook version
ISBN 9780593680889, Published 6 June 2023
by Books on Tape - Listening Library
Read by Karen Murray (not in Goodreads Catalogue at time of review)
CW: death, grief, child abuse, mental illness
This is a middle grade book and as such it is full of growth messages for young people. It really isn't condescending though. The main character is starting the new year of school without her best friend who has just gone to a new specialist school that will foster his talent in music. She is aching to learn the drums, but hasn't hit it off with any of the teachers that her mother has hired over the school break. Due to being seated in alphabetical order at school, April is obliged to do a lot of partner work with a new person in her life. This girl is annoying and loud, and unpopular, and April prefers to avoid and ignore her where possible.
The setting of the story is really in family. April's family is a blend of two single parent, single child units who live in apartments across the corridor from each other. April's mother is single by choice and not interested in men, and Zee's father is a solo dad. The two kids are more like siblings than friends, and rely on each other in meaningful ways.
Over time, April realises that one reason she is finding it hard to make friends with her desk-mate, is because the girl is absent a lot. She has a lot of life changes to deal with herself, and it takes talking to someone about them to put the idea in her mind, that maybe the other girl is having problems too.
The informative message of the story is reflective of the author's own experience of losing someone to Sudden Cardiac Arrest. Zee's father is concerned when the boy faints at school one day, remembering his own schooling where one of the star sports players dropped dead on the field with no warning.
This is a book that deals with death, change, and grief, and carrying heavy burdens. Having safe people in your life to talk to is important, but this story doesn't gloss over the fact that _who_ those safe people are, can change over time.
ISBN 9780593680889, Published 6 June 2023
by Books on Tape - Listening Library
Read by Karen Murray (not in Goodreads Catalogue at time of review)
CW: death, grief, child abuse, mental illness
This is a middle grade book and as such it is full of growth messages for young people. It really isn't condescending though. The main character is starting the new year of school without her best friend who has just gone to a new specialist school that will foster his talent in music. She is aching to learn the drums, but hasn't hit it off with any of the teachers that her mother has hired over the school break. Due to being seated in alphabetical order at school, April is obliged to do a lot of partner work with a new person in her life. This girl is annoying and loud, and unpopular, and April prefers to avoid and ignore her where possible.
The setting of the story is really in family. April's family is a blend of two single parent, single child units who live in apartments across the corridor from each other. April's mother is single by choice and not interested in men, and Zee's father is a solo dad. The two kids are more like siblings than friends, and rely on each other in meaningful ways.
Over time, April realises that one reason she is finding it hard to make friends with her desk-mate, is because the girl is absent a lot. She has a lot of life changes to deal with herself, and it takes talking to someone about them to put the idea in her mind, that maybe the other girl is having problems too.
The informative message of the story is reflective of the author's own experience of losing someone to Sudden Cardiac Arrest. Zee's father is concerned when the boy faints at school one day, remembering his own schooling where one of the star sports players dropped dead on the field with no warning.
This is a book that deals with death, change, and grief, and carrying heavy burdens. Having safe people in your life to talk to is important, but this story doesn't gloss over the fact that _who_ those safe people are, can change over time.
June 8, 2023
4.5 stars
This story was about change, specifically change in middle schooler April's life. Her best friend from birth is going to a different school, her mom, for the first time, seems interested in someone, her new friend at school seems to have the most abysmal attendance, and she's decided she wants to really learn how to play the drums. From the blurb, you know what happens and her life is turned upside down.
I went back and forth with the rating but finally decided to round down. I think what would truly have made it 5 stars would have been if I hadn't known what was going to happen before I started reading it and if I had listened to it read instead. When it comes to poetry and verse, I prefer listening rather than reading. This story is particularly suited for that as it is written in free verse. But although we are left hopeful for April and her family, as well as Asa, I feel like we don't know enough about whether Papa Zee will ever be okay.
That said, I loved this and ended up reading it in one sitting. But because I knew what was going to happen, I was reading the first half just waiting for the shoe to drop. I did love the adult lgbtq+ representation from April's mom and girlfriend (I don't see that enough in children's lit), and it was a good way to introduce a positive change to April's life (even if she didn't initially see it that way). I also liked the issues with Asa and although I didn't agree with the choices April made (why didn't she just tell her mom what she saw?), I do understand the guilt that led her to make these choices.
And of course, the music! I loved how music was such a huge part of her life and her relationship with Papa Zee. I was so glad she had a chance to hear Zee play his violin piece and only wish we could have heard it! As I was reading, I ended up looking up Sheila E videos (especially the one with Prince) and listening to them!
I received an advance review copy for free from NetGalley and the publisher, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story was about change, specifically change in middle schooler April's life. Her best friend from birth is going to a different school, her mom, for the first time, seems interested in someone, her new friend at school seems to have the most abysmal attendance, and she's decided she wants to really learn how to play the drums. From the blurb, you know what happens and her life is turned upside down.
I went back and forth with the rating but finally decided to round down. I think what would truly have made it 5 stars would have been if I hadn't known what was going to happen before I started reading it and if I had listened to it read instead. When it comes to poetry and verse, I prefer listening rather than reading. This story is particularly suited for that as it is written in free verse. But although we are left hopeful for April and her family, as well as Asa, I feel like we don't know enough about whether Papa Zee will ever be okay.
That said, I loved this and ended up reading it in one sitting. But because I knew what was going to happen, I was reading the first half just waiting for the shoe to drop. I did love the adult lgbtq+ representation from April's mom and girlfriend (I don't see that enough in children's lit), and it was a good way to introduce a positive change to April's life (even if she didn't initially see it that way). I also liked the issues with Asa and although I didn't agree with the choices April made (why didn't she just tell her mom what she saw?), I do understand the guilt that led her to make these choices.
And of course, the music! I loved how music was such a huge part of her life and her relationship with Papa Zee. I was so glad she had a chance to hear Zee play his violin piece and only wish we could have heard it! As I was reading, I ended up looking up Sheila E videos (especially the one with Prince) and listening to them!
I received an advance review copy for free from NetGalley and the publisher, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 12, 2023
Hold onto your hearts with this book. As I opened to the first page, I was instantly taken with the lyrical verse and utterly relatable characters, 11-year old April and her best friend, Zee. These two best friends live across the hall from each other and have a shared love of music, a love that takes Zee to a new charter school away from April. As they each work to find their own way in their new situations, April learns about what it means to have a passion, to not judge others and to find a new way forward, when needed. Grab your tissues, everyone.
June 17, 2023
powerful MG novel written in verse. I think the way this was written was beautiful and so easy to get through. I read this in one sitting. The topics this deals with is wonderfully done, grief, family, friendship it all felt so authentic. Loved the inclusion of music and the ambitions and differences between April and Zee. Would recommend for younger and older audiences as it’s just overall a great read.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the earc!
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the earc!
September 21, 2023
This is a super quick read or listen about an 11-year-old girl who loses her best friend abruptly. It is a heartbreaking story about grief at such a young age, and as an adult. The book touches on not only that, but also abuse and family and friendship and music. I think middle schoolers will love this book.
October 5, 2023
Why am I crying on the drum kit right now?
Heart-wrenching story of two friends and their dreams to grow up and play music together. I didn't read anything in the synopsis so I was not expecting a major plot point that is major sad y'all. Still a lovely little story about growing and learning to deal with change. So pleasant on audio too.
Heart-wrenching story of two friends and their dreams to grow up and play music together. I didn't read anything in the synopsis so I was not expecting a major plot point that is major sad y'all. Still a lovely little story about growing and learning to deal with change. So pleasant on audio too.
July 9, 2023
Another great book in verse. This story reads quickly and deals with ragedy, grief, and the determination to move forward.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2023
A rhythmic journey through friendship, grief, and dreams/passions, all through one specially talented and brave protagonist. Such a fan of Kaija Langley’s way with words now and beyond…
May 4, 2024
4⭐️ Popsugar Reading Challenge 2024: a collection of a least 24 poems.
I enjoyed this book (surprisingly) I don’t usually like books spoken in poems. I liked sitting down and reading this story and even cried a bit. The difficult but important topics shown in this book are old and new friendships, family, life changes and knowing when to speak up .
I enjoyed this book (surprisingly) I don’t usually like books spoken in poems. I liked sitting down and reading this story and even cried a bit. The difficult but important topics shown in this book are old and new friendships, family, life changes and knowing when to speak up .
June 5, 2023
Gosh, I am absolutely adrift in feelings. This is such a fantastic novel in verse about April, a young girl dreaming of being a famous drummer but struggling with taking the first steps, but with her best friend, Zee, at her side she knows there’s nothing she can’t accomplish. But when Zee suddenly passes away, April’s whole reality is forced to shift, and suddenly she doesn’t know if she can play without Zee at her side. I really loved this book and it has many messy feelings and complicated relationships, but it’s also so full of love. A great book indeed!
July 3, 2023
Welp, this book tore me apart. If you are looking for a sad book, this is for you. But also...it's a great book about discovering your passion. It was a great novel in verse.
June 18, 2023
April has a good life—she and her mother and their neighbours, Zee and Papa Zee, have cobbled together a well-oiled routine that turns friends into family. Zee is a violin star, April is learning the drums, and together they have big dreams. But when things change—and change again—April is at a loss for what to do and how to process it all.
First things first: Don't read the official book description—just don't do it. It covers almost the entire plot and leaves too little unsaid.
There's a lot that I love here, starting with the family structure. April's mother is a single parent, and the two of them are making it work—April's mother works night shifts, meaning that April often sleeps on Papa Zee's couch , and I love that this is just sort of...treated as a matter-of-fact 'we're making it work' thing. There's not a lot of money to go around, but there's enough, and it occurred to me, reading this, that I don't see enough of those stories—the ones floating between 'the power has been cut off again' and 'my family is taking our annual monthlong trip to Greece'. April's mother is also a single parent by choice, again not something that I see a lot of in fiction. There's not a ton of detail about that (probably because of the target age range), but it's something that's nice to see. I'm always a fan of books about friendship, which we have here, rather than romance. Also, a small thing, but the characters all wear earplugs when there's going to be loud music (especially drumming)—and that's something I can absolutely get behind! Save your eardrums!
The book is written in verse, and it's fine but not standout for me. There are some lovely turns of phrase:
Working night shift
loading trucks means
Mama sleeps most of
the day, works most of
the night, and we live
in the quiet moments
in between. (5)
I start off the way I usually do,
warming up my arms and legs
by hitting my sticks together,
the clack-clack-clack-clack
and boom-boom-boom-boom
from hitting the bass drum pedal
vibrating through my whole body. (66)
On the whole, though, when I read books in verse, I'm usually hoping for a bit more...verse...and fewer full sentences with line breaks. This does better than many, but the verse wasn't bringing as much to the table as I'd hoped. That said, worth the read for the themes of loss and grief. (The metronome—ooh, and A+ for that symbolism, even if it isn't overt—broke my heart a little, because I had a very similar experience with holding on to a gift for a while, waiting to put it in a Christmas stocking, only for...well, different situation but the same outcome, also right before Christmas.) 3.5 stars.
First things first: Don't read the official book description—just don't do it. It covers almost the entire plot and leaves too little unsaid.
There's a lot that I love here, starting with the family structure. April's mother is a single parent, and the two of them are making it work—April's mother works night shifts, meaning that April often sleeps on Papa Zee's couch , and I love that this is just sort of...treated as a matter-of-fact 'we're making it work' thing. There's not a lot of money to go around, but there's enough, and it occurred to me, reading this, that I don't see enough of those stories—the ones floating between 'the power has been cut off again' and 'my family is taking our annual monthlong trip to Greece'. April's mother is also a single parent by choice, again not something that I see a lot of in fiction. There's not a ton of detail about that (probably because of the target age range), but it's something that's nice to see. I'm always a fan of books about friendship, which we have here, rather than romance. Also, a small thing, but the characters all wear earplugs when there's going to be loud music (especially drumming)—and that's something I can absolutely get behind! Save your eardrums!
The book is written in verse, and it's fine but not standout for me. There are some lovely turns of phrase:
Working night shift
loading trucks means
Mama sleeps most of
the day, works most of
the night, and we live
in the quiet moments
in between. (5)
I start off the way I usually do,
warming up my arms and legs
by hitting my sticks together,
the clack-clack-clack-clack
and boom-boom-boom-boom
from hitting the bass drum pedal
vibrating through my whole body. (66)
On the whole, though, when I read books in verse, I'm usually hoping for a bit more...verse...and fewer full sentences with line breaks. This does better than many, but the verse wasn't bringing as much to the table as I'd hoped. That said, worth the read for the themes of loss and grief. (The metronome—ooh, and A+ for that symbolism, even if it isn't overt—broke my heart a little, because I had a very similar experience with holding on to a gift for a while, waiting to put it in a Christmas stocking, only for...well, different situation but the same outcome, also right before Christmas.) 3.5 stars.
April 24, 2024
Kaija Langley's novel-in-verse unfolds through the eyes of eleven-year-old April Jackson, a young girl navigating the turbulent waters of grief following the sudden death of her best friend, Zee.
April, an aspiring drummer, is portrayed with a passionate love for music that rivals her affection for Zee, a violin prodigy. The story begins with a shared dream of musical greatness, with both characters inspiring each other to pursue their artistic ambitions. The narrative takes a heart-wrenching turn when Zee unexpectedly passes away, leaving April to face a drastically altered reality. The impact of this loss is depicted with sensitivity suitable for its middle-grade audience.
Set in contemporary Boston, the novel's first-person narrative allows readers to deeply connect with April’s emotional journey. Langley skillfully uses April's voice to explore complex themes of grief and resilience. As April attempts to find normalcy, she takes on the responsibility of delivering mail for Zee’s grieving father, an act that intertwines her path with that of a classmate in need. This subplot not only enhances the theme of community and support but also showcases April's burgeoning courage and determination.
Despite its strengths, the book occasionally struggles with depth and resolution. The exploration of grief, while relatable, often feels somewhat superficial, lacking the intricacy expected in such emotionally charged narratives. Certain plot elements are introduced but not fully developed, leaving readers with unresolved questions and a sense of hastiness that detracts from the overall impact of the story. While it commendably addresses themes of friendship and grief, the narrative does not delve as deeply into these issues as some other works in the middle-grade genre. The novel stands out for its heartfelt depiction of a young girl's struggle with loss and her tentative steps towards healing, but the execution of these themes could benefit from greater depth and more thorough resolution.
April, an aspiring drummer, is portrayed with a passionate love for music that rivals her affection for Zee, a violin prodigy. The story begins with a shared dream of musical greatness, with both characters inspiring each other to pursue their artistic ambitions. The narrative takes a heart-wrenching turn when Zee unexpectedly passes away, leaving April to face a drastically altered reality. The impact of this loss is depicted with sensitivity suitable for its middle-grade audience.
Set in contemporary Boston, the novel's first-person narrative allows readers to deeply connect with April’s emotional journey. Langley skillfully uses April's voice to explore complex themes of grief and resilience. As April attempts to find normalcy, she takes on the responsibility of delivering mail for Zee’s grieving father, an act that intertwines her path with that of a classmate in need. This subplot not only enhances the theme of community and support but also showcases April's burgeoning courage and determination.
Despite its strengths, the book occasionally struggles with depth and resolution. The exploration of grief, while relatable, often feels somewhat superficial, lacking the intricacy expected in such emotionally charged narratives. Certain plot elements are introduced but not fully developed, leaving readers with unresolved questions and a sense of hastiness that detracts from the overall impact of the story. While it commendably addresses themes of friendship and grief, the narrative does not delve as deeply into these issues as some other works in the middle-grade genre. The novel stands out for its heartfelt depiction of a young girl's struggle with loss and her tentative steps towards healing, but the execution of these themes could benefit from greater depth and more thorough resolution.
June 13, 2023
After a bit of a slow beginning, The Order of Things became a completely engaging story affecting all of my emotions.
April gets a drum set for Christmas, and her best friend Zee gets a violin. April is excited to learn, but at her age her practice and seriousness with the drums is on and off. Zee is from a family of New Orleans musicians, and is nearly a violin prodigy, practicing all day, every day.
It’s the eve of entering middle school and Zee will be attending a Boston STEAM charter school focusing on the arts. For this reason, April and Zee now go to different schools, but they still see each other every day, having lived across the hall from each other in their apartment budling since childhood.
One day, Zee passes out in music class at school. He’s checked out by a doctor and released. He continues to practice his violin with extreme vigor, as his music is one of the most important things to him in life. April witnesses a couple of his near fainting spells first hand but Zee makes her promise not to tell and she honors his wish and regrettably so, as Zee goes into sudden cardiac arrest. This is a rare condition, but it does happen to young people. After the loss of Zee, and this point is not a spoiler, as it is in the book blurb, April struggles to find friendship in her classmate Asa, or joy in playing the drums. All this is complicated by her mom dating a new woman. Zander, Zee’s father goes into mourning his son letting everything in life slide. April tries to cover for Zee’s father by attempting to deliver the backlog of mail he has failed to deliver and is amassing in a closet. There are too many things all happening so fast with what feels like little time to mourn or consider her own dreams and it finally catches up to April.
Here we have brilliant novel-in-verse that explores friendship, and how to deal with grief for a middle grade audience, ending with the challenge to always follow your dreams.
April gets a drum set for Christmas, and her best friend Zee gets a violin. April is excited to learn, but at her age her practice and seriousness with the drums is on and off. Zee is from a family of New Orleans musicians, and is nearly a violin prodigy, practicing all day, every day.
It’s the eve of entering middle school and Zee will be attending a Boston STEAM charter school focusing on the arts. For this reason, April and Zee now go to different schools, but they still see each other every day, having lived across the hall from each other in their apartment budling since childhood.
One day, Zee passes out in music class at school. He’s checked out by a doctor and released. He continues to practice his violin with extreme vigor, as his music is one of the most important things to him in life. April witnesses a couple of his near fainting spells first hand but Zee makes her promise not to tell and she honors his wish and regrettably so, as Zee goes into sudden cardiac arrest. This is a rare condition, but it does happen to young people. After the loss of Zee, and this point is not a spoiler, as it is in the book blurb, April struggles to find friendship in her classmate Asa, or joy in playing the drums. All this is complicated by her mom dating a new woman. Zander, Zee’s father goes into mourning his son letting everything in life slide. April tries to cover for Zee’s father by attempting to deliver the backlog of mail he has failed to deliver and is amassing in a closet. There are too many things all happening so fast with what feels like little time to mourn or consider her own dreams and it finally catches up to April.
Here we have brilliant novel-in-verse that explores friendship, and how to deal with grief for a middle grade audience, ending with the challenge to always follow your dreams.
June 25, 2023
“Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda
said something, told somebody,
if I hadn’t made that stupid promise.” (139)
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 2,000 young, seemingly healthy people under age 25 in the United States die each year of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). (Author’s Note)
Eleven-year-olds April and Zander Jr (Zee) are best friends and fellow music lovers. Zee plays the violin and has just transferred to a school which can take his playing to the next level. April yearns to become a drummer but is just beginning lessons with Zee’s father.
April lives with her single mom (“single by choice”) and Zee lives with his father, a postman and former musician.
“Zee’s mom was a woman with
music in her bones who went
searching for a melody, a song
only she could hear, and never
returned.” (94)
When Zee works day and night, hoping for the solo in the school concert, he faints and confides in April that his heart sometimes races but makes her promise not to tell anyone, a promise that April takes seriously. When he experiences SCA and dies at school, April is tormented by guilt.
While grieving Zee, April struggles with the idea that her mother has a serious girlfriend and that discovers that Mr. Zee is not handling his son’s death—April finds undelivered mail in his closet which she then takes upon herself to deliver.
When delivering mail, she finds out why her classmate, and possibly new friend, Asa misses so much school and is always hungry. After experiencing the dire consequences of keeping Zee’s secret, she knows that this is not a secret she should keep.
“I only know that I didn’t let what
I knew go unspoken.
Not this time.” (257)
Written in verse, Kaija Langley’s new novel will provide a map to help preteens—and teens—navigate the hard decisions in their lives.
said something, told somebody,
if I hadn’t made that stupid promise.” (139)
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 2,000 young, seemingly healthy people under age 25 in the United States die each year of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). (Author’s Note)
Eleven-year-olds April and Zander Jr (Zee) are best friends and fellow music lovers. Zee plays the violin and has just transferred to a school which can take his playing to the next level. April yearns to become a drummer but is just beginning lessons with Zee’s father.
April lives with her single mom (“single by choice”) and Zee lives with his father, a postman and former musician.
“Zee’s mom was a woman with
music in her bones who went
searching for a melody, a song
only she could hear, and never
returned.” (94)
When Zee works day and night, hoping for the solo in the school concert, he faints and confides in April that his heart sometimes races but makes her promise not to tell anyone, a promise that April takes seriously. When he experiences SCA and dies at school, April is tormented by guilt.
While grieving Zee, April struggles with the idea that her mother has a serious girlfriend and that discovers that Mr. Zee is not handling his son’s death—April finds undelivered mail in his closet which she then takes upon herself to deliver.
When delivering mail, she finds out why her classmate, and possibly new friend, Asa misses so much school and is always hungry. After experiencing the dire consequences of keeping Zee’s secret, she knows that this is not a secret she should keep.
“I only know that I didn’t let what
I knew go unspoken.
Not this time.” (257)
Written in verse, Kaija Langley’s new novel will provide a map to help preteens—and teens—navigate the hard decisions in their lives.
June 15, 2023
11-year-old April has been best friends with Zee since they were born only a month apart. They live across the hallway from each other in their apartment building and together, along with April’s mom, and Papa Zee - the four are a family. This school year though, things are changing. Zee has gotten into the new charter school specializing in music for his violin and April is staying behind at their old school.
But, when tragedy strikes and Zee passes away, April is forced to relearn what it means to continue after losing everything she once knew.
I went into this quite blindly. I’m a sucker for novel-in-verse books, especially middle grade because they seem all the more powerful to me for some reason. I saw this one on NetGalley and immediately requested to read it without much else. That being said, after reading it, I fully read the description and I do think it needs to be changed up - it gives away 95% of the book. When I recommend this, I’m going to try and suggest they not read the description to not give anything away.
Besides the description being too much, I’m still going to be recommending this book to many others. It was beautiful and full of representation. This story talks about ways people deal with the pain of losing someone and what it means to speak up at the right time. This is all done in a way that, though a bit simplified for middle grade, it will still require some tissues.
*Thank you Nancy Paulsen Books and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
But, when tragedy strikes and Zee passes away, April is forced to relearn what it means to continue after losing everything she once knew.
I went into this quite blindly. I’m a sucker for novel-in-verse books, especially middle grade because they seem all the more powerful to me for some reason. I saw this one on NetGalley and immediately requested to read it without much else. That being said, after reading it, I fully read the description and I do think it needs to be changed up - it gives away 95% of the book. When I recommend this, I’m going to try and suggest they not read the description to not give anything away.
Besides the description being too much, I’m still going to be recommending this book to many others. It was beautiful and full of representation. This story talks about ways people deal with the pain of losing someone and what it means to speak up at the right time. This is all done in a way that, though a bit simplified for middle grade, it will still require some tissues.
*Thank you Nancy Paulsen Books and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
July 5, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group, and Nancy Paulsen Books for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This book was absolutely brilliant. It is a beautifully written book told in verse (which I LOVE) about friendship, grief, and love.
April Jackson and her best friend Zee are both 11 years old and have basically been inseparable since birth. They grew up across the hall from each other in an apartment building in Boston. They also used to go to the same school until Zee started attending a new school to focus on his music.
While April is sad at first, she is also happy that her friend will be able to work towards his dreams and they are still able to see each other outside of school a lot.
April is also really interested in music and wants learn how to play the drums. Zee's dad, Papa Zee, is going to help her learn after school and April is very excited to be able to start following her music dreams as well.
Then one day Zee unexpectedly passes away, and it leaves April and the rest of their family in shambles. April while struggling with her own grief also tries to help Papa Zee with his grief. She is also concerned for a new friend at school and is trying to help her, while also learning how to cope with her Mom's new relationship.
I don't want to say too much more because of spoilers but I HIGHLY recommend this book! I absolutely could not put it down and was able to read the entire book in one sitting. This is one of the books that after you finish reading it, the book will stay with you.
I will read any book that this author publishes!!! Definitely go read this book now!
This book was absolutely brilliant. It is a beautifully written book told in verse (which I LOVE) about friendship, grief, and love.
April Jackson and her best friend Zee are both 11 years old and have basically been inseparable since birth. They grew up across the hall from each other in an apartment building in Boston. They also used to go to the same school until Zee started attending a new school to focus on his music.
While April is sad at first, she is also happy that her friend will be able to work towards his dreams and they are still able to see each other outside of school a lot.
April is also really interested in music and wants learn how to play the drums. Zee's dad, Papa Zee, is going to help her learn after school and April is very excited to be able to start following her music dreams as well.
Then one day Zee unexpectedly passes away, and it leaves April and the rest of their family in shambles. April while struggling with her own grief also tries to help Papa Zee with his grief. She is also concerned for a new friend at school and is trying to help her, while also learning how to cope with her Mom's new relationship.
I don't want to say too much more because of spoilers but I HIGHLY recommend this book! I absolutely could not put it down and was able to read the entire book in one sitting. This is one of the books that after you finish reading it, the book will stay with you.
I will read any book that this author publishes!!! Definitely go read this book now!
July 25, 2023
April has her mom and Papa Z and best friend Zee in the apartment across the hall and doesn’t need anyone else. The two families almost seem like one with the amount of time the four spend together and as often as April sleeps on the couch at Zee’s while mom works the night shift. But life changes and sometimes those changes are hard. Kaija Langley’s verse flows quickly and it won’t take long before readers will be making connections to April and Zee’s close friendship, relating to Zee’s fears as he starts the year at a new private school that will allow his talent on the violin to soar and wondering if April will let her drum-playing dream even get started. But this is more than just a “learn how to make new friends/start a new school” drama—April’s mom begins to date a woman at work, a new friend lives with poverty and neglect, and tragedy hits close to home. So much is packed into a small amount of text but does so with such depth! Highly recommended book for grades 4-7 and might even be enjoyed by older as the life changes experienced in THE ORDER OF THINGS are not unique to middle graders and except that April and Zee’s ages are stated, their situations could just as easily have been in a jr high or high school setting. Text is free of profanity, sexual content, and profanity. Representation: April and Zee are Black but strong supporting characters Robin and Asa are Caucasian; April’s mom begins a serious dating relationship with another woman with the same sex component handled without commentary or judgement.
June 5, 2023
This middle grade novel in verse has already been added to my list to add to the library for the upcoming school year! It’s a fantastic story of April, an eleven year old girl who dreams of being a famous drummer. There’s fantastic diversity and representation in this book, lots of lovable characters, raw emotion, beautiful writing… I loved it, and I am excited to share this one with my students.
My big issues were the book had nothing to do with the writing or the story itself. The book blurb honestly gives away 97% of the plot - almost up until the very last chapter. Reading the blurb tainted the reading experience for me because I felt like I knew what was coming and had a more difficult time focusing on what I was reading. Also, one of the biggest plot points is given away in the book blurb. I really didn’t like that, because I spent over the first half of the book anticipating the emotional climax. Instead of spelling out the entire story, I think it’s enough to know that the main character struggles with grief and accepting major changes in her life.
Although I wish I had gone into this book blindly, I’m still so glad I read it and will be recommending it to students this fall! I might just have to tape a post-it over the back summary! Grades 3+
Thank you to Nancy Paulsen Books and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader's Copy! This book releases on June 6 and is a great addition to elementary and middle school libraries!
My big issues were the book had nothing to do with the writing or the story itself. The book blurb honestly gives away 97% of the plot - almost up until the very last chapter. Reading the blurb tainted the reading experience for me because I felt like I knew what was coming and had a more difficult time focusing on what I was reading. Also, one of the biggest plot points is given away in the book blurb. I really didn’t like that, because I spent over the first half of the book anticipating the emotional climax. Instead of spelling out the entire story, I think it’s enough to know that the main character struggles with grief and accepting major changes in her life.
Although I wish I had gone into this book blindly, I’m still so glad I read it and will be recommending it to students this fall! I might just have to tape a post-it over the back summary! Grades 3+
Thank you to Nancy Paulsen Books and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader's Copy! This book releases on June 6 and is a great addition to elementary and middle school libraries!
July 23, 2023
From Goodreads: Eleven-year-old April Jackson loves playing the drums, almost as much as she loves her best friend, Zee, a violin prodigy. They both dream of becoming professional musicians one day. When Zee starts attending a new school that will nurture his talent, April decides it’s time for her to pursue her dreams, too, and finally take drum lessons. She knows she isn’t very good to start, but with Zee’s support, she also knows someday she can be just as good as her hero, Sheila E., and travel all around the world with a pair of drumsticks in her hand.
When the unthinkable happens and Zee suddenly passes away, April is crushed by grief. Without Zee, nothing is the way it’s supposed to be. Zee's Dad isn't delivering the mail for his postal route like he should. April's Mom is suddenly dating someone new who is occupying too much space in their lives. And every time April tries to play the drums, all she can think about is Zee.
April isn't sure how to move on from the awful feeling of being without Zee. Desperate to help Papa Zee, she decides to secretly deliver the mail he’s been neglecting. But when on her route she discovers a classmate in trouble, she doesn’t second guess what she knows is the right thing to do.
It s good a lot of content: trusting one's self, the meaning of friend, trying to do good, dealing with parent's new "good" friend, and more. Written in verse so a fast read for reluctant readers.
When the unthinkable happens and Zee suddenly passes away, April is crushed by grief. Without Zee, nothing is the way it’s supposed to be. Zee's Dad isn't delivering the mail for his postal route like he should. April's Mom is suddenly dating someone new who is occupying too much space in their lives. And every time April tries to play the drums, all she can think about is Zee.
April isn't sure how to move on from the awful feeling of being without Zee. Desperate to help Papa Zee, she decides to secretly deliver the mail he’s been neglecting. But when on her route she discovers a classmate in trouble, she doesn’t second guess what she knows is the right thing to do.
It s good a lot of content: trusting one's self, the meaning of friend, trying to do good, dealing with parent's new "good" friend, and more. Written in verse so a fast read for reluctant readers.
August 14, 2023
4.5 stars!
Kaija Langley's, The Order Of Things is an incredible novel-in-verse story about loss, grief, and ultimately overcoming it. It is about the changes and adjustments that one faces when they lose a loved one, even at a tender young age. Equally as important, it is about resilience and learning to continue to navigate life when your world has been shaken at its core. Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April Jackson is your typical 11 year old who has dreams of one day of becoming a professional musician like her best friend Zee, a violinist with incredible talent. After watching and supporting him play since forever, April is ready to pursue her dream and passion for playing the drums. When the school year starts and Zee begins at a different school that will hone his musical talents, April remains his biggest fan and supporter and begins to take lesson with Zee's dad.
Both April and Zee are at peak performance when he begins to prepare for a solo that's literally taking all of his time away. Sadly, in a horrible chain of events, Zee suddenly passes away and April is consumed by grief. She comes to find out firsthand how death ravages through families and ultimately changes you.
Driven to help Zee's dad cope with grief, she begins to deliver mail that he's neglected on his route. While doing so, she discovers a classmate is in trouble and finds the courage to do something about it, even at the risk of losing a potential friend.
This is a book that will pull and tug at your heart strings. I had to put it down once and share what I was reading because I was devastated by the suddenness of Zee's passing. I warn you that it can be triggering especially with the themes presented here. Yet, I definitely recommend this book, as I believe the messaging and takeaway to be necessary for all ages.
Kaija Langley's, The Order Of Things is an incredible novel-in-verse story about loss, grief, and ultimately overcoming it. It is about the changes and adjustments that one faces when they lose a loved one, even at a tender young age. Equally as important, it is about resilience and learning to continue to navigate life when your world has been shaken at its core. Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April Jackson is your typical 11 year old who has dreams of one day of becoming a professional musician like her best friend Zee, a violinist with incredible talent. After watching and supporting him play since forever, April is ready to pursue her dream and passion for playing the drums. When the school year starts and Zee begins at a different school that will hone his musical talents, April remains his biggest fan and supporter and begins to take lesson with Zee's dad.
Both April and Zee are at peak performance when he begins to prepare for a solo that's literally taking all of his time away. Sadly, in a horrible chain of events, Zee suddenly passes away and April is consumed by grief. She comes to find out firsthand how death ravages through families and ultimately changes you.
Driven to help Zee's dad cope with grief, she begins to deliver mail that he's neglected on his route. While doing so, she discovers a classmate is in trouble and finds the courage to do something about it, even at the risk of losing a potential friend.
This is a book that will pull and tug at your heart strings. I had to put it down once and share what I was reading because I was devastated by the suddenness of Zee's passing. I warn you that it can be triggering especially with the themes presented here. Yet, I definitely recommend this book, as I believe the messaging and takeaway to be necessary for all ages.
March 22, 2024
Sixth-graders April and Zee, who live right across the hall in the same apartment building, have been best friends all of their lives. Both love music, and Zee, a talented violinist, is now attending a special school where he can hone his craft. April, who aspires to be a drummer, has only had lessons in fits and starts and never dedicated herself to learning how to play well. As April moves through the new school without her constant companion, she notices signs that something isn't right with Zee. But he persuades her to say nothing to his father. She keeps his secret but feels guilty after a tragedy occurs. The changes in her life--with Zee gone and her mother involved with Robin, her new love interest, April feels unsettled and unwilling to give Robin a chance--or anyone else, for that matter. Still, when she notices signs that something is terribly wrong with Asa, one of her classmates, and has her suspicions confirms, she is determined to take action this time. This novel in verse is engaging, and readers will care deeply about its characters while hoping that they can make their way to the other side of the grief process. April herself is an interesting character, but I wondered what her deal was about not having taken drumming seriously previously. I would have liked for that part of the story to be developed more since she seemed all in once she found the right teacher. But wasn't he there all along?
July 21, 2023
Title: The Order of Things
By: Kaija Langley
Genre:
Narrative Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Recommended Ages:
13 and up
Red Flags:
Loss, grief, addiction, foster care, domestic disputes, depression
(*for some people- the main character's mom dates another woman.)
Summary:
April and Zee are more than the best of friends, they are family. They have attended school together their whole lives, until 6th grade when Zee has the opportunity to attend a performing arts school. Zee is an amazing violinist who spends long hours practicing. April begins to take drum lessons from Zee’s dad, but for April the musical ability takes additional hours of practice. Unfortunately, tragedy strikes even for these best of friends, and life comes to a screeching halt.
Review:
For starters, the online summary spoils the plot for this novel. DON’T READ IT! This is a beautifully written novel in verse with middle grade themes of friendship, family, and most importantly navigating life’s hard decisions. The plot leaves the reader wondering…What would I do? Second guessing the actions of the main character as she is filled with guilt. I love the talented way the author weaved the emotions of a real middle schooler in these real life situations. As an educator, I was slightly concerned about the level of guilt and emotions portrayed in the book for a middle grade read. My students are all on different levels, some could handle the climax while others may struggle with the main characters' decisions.
I am a huge advocate of narrative poetry and novels in verse. I have found this specific genre to be less intimidating for my reluctant readers. The lyrical beauty captures young readers attention and draws them into the novel. Successful narrative poetry takes talent which Kaija Langley has perfected in this novel in verse.
Thank you to Kaija Langley, Penguin Random House, Nancy Paulsen Books, and Netgalley for the Advanced Reader Copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
#reluctantreaderreads
#theorderofthings
#penguinrandomhouse
#kaijalangley
#netgalley
#advancedreadereditions
By: Kaija Langley
Genre:
Narrative Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Recommended Ages:
13 and up
Red Flags:
Loss, grief, addiction, foster care, domestic disputes, depression
(*for some people- the main character's mom dates another woman.)
Summary:
April and Zee are more than the best of friends, they are family. They have attended school together their whole lives, until 6th grade when Zee has the opportunity to attend a performing arts school. Zee is an amazing violinist who spends long hours practicing. April begins to take drum lessons from Zee’s dad, but for April the musical ability takes additional hours of practice. Unfortunately, tragedy strikes even for these best of friends, and life comes to a screeching halt.
Review:
For starters, the online summary spoils the plot for this novel. DON’T READ IT! This is a beautifully written novel in verse with middle grade themes of friendship, family, and most importantly navigating life’s hard decisions. The plot leaves the reader wondering…What would I do? Second guessing the actions of the main character as she is filled with guilt. I love the talented way the author weaved the emotions of a real middle schooler in these real life situations. As an educator, I was slightly concerned about the level of guilt and emotions portrayed in the book for a middle grade read. My students are all on different levels, some could handle the climax while others may struggle with the main characters' decisions.
I am a huge advocate of narrative poetry and novels in verse. I have found this specific genre to be less intimidating for my reluctant readers. The lyrical beauty captures young readers attention and draws them into the novel. Successful narrative poetry takes talent which Kaija Langley has perfected in this novel in verse.
Thank you to Kaija Langley, Penguin Random House, Nancy Paulsen Books, and Netgalley for the Advanced Reader Copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
#reluctantreaderreads
#theorderofthings
#penguinrandomhouse
#kaijalangley
#netgalley
#advancedreadereditions
Read
July 25, 2023April and Zee are best friends. April lives with her mom, and Zee lives with his dad across the hall. Music plays a huge role in the lives of both eleven year olds.
Zee is just starting at a new school that will allow him to devote even more time to playing the violin. He is truly gifted. April plays the drums and hopes to follow in the footsteps of the numerous female drummers whose pictures decorate the walls of her room. Not as advanced as Zee, she hopes with the help of Zee's dad, she can improve and rise to the next level.
As school starts, April is missing Zee, but getting partnered with a girl named Asa promises to give her a new friend. Asa is absent frequently which confuses April. Is something wrong? Is there something to worry about?
There is something to worry about with Zee. He faints at school and confesses to April that his heart often races; something it did just before he passed out. He makes April promise not to tell anyone until after he plays the solo he worked so hard to earn.
THE ORDER OF THINGS is a novel in verse by author Kaija Langley. With a focus on friendship, family, and loss, this is an offering perfect for middle grade and up.
Zee is just starting at a new school that will allow him to devote even more time to playing the violin. He is truly gifted. April plays the drums and hopes to follow in the footsteps of the numerous female drummers whose pictures decorate the walls of her room. Not as advanced as Zee, she hopes with the help of Zee's dad, she can improve and rise to the next level.
As school starts, April is missing Zee, but getting partnered with a girl named Asa promises to give her a new friend. Asa is absent frequently which confuses April. Is something wrong? Is there something to worry about?
There is something to worry about with Zee. He faints at school and confesses to April that his heart often races; something it did just before he passed out. He makes April promise not to tell anyone until after he plays the solo he worked so hard to earn.
THE ORDER OF THINGS is a novel in verse by author Kaija Langley. With a focus on friendship, family, and loss, this is an offering perfect for middle grade and up.
July 4, 2023
I am very thankful to receive a E-ARC from NetGalley! The Order of Things follows April as she experiences a great loss not too far into the novel. I found the pros of the poetry to be beautiful. Especially after this great loss. It kept me deep into April mind.
I realized while reading early on that it wouldn't truly be for me. But this is a middle grade novel, and I was wondering how the author Kaija Langley would deal with the turmoil in the mindset of a child. If the handling would be appropriate for a child, and where it falls on the middle grade spectrum. To my delight it fell perfectly in the in-between and handled every topic with ease. Everything was clear and helpful. I found April arc inspiring but also, I could see it being helpful for other kids going through the same thing.
I sometimes feel that authors can't write children properly in 1st person. Yet Langley proves that it can be done. Due to it not being exactly the story I thought it would be I landed on a 3.75 but would highly recommend!
I realized while reading early on that it wouldn't truly be for me. But this is a middle grade novel, and I was wondering how the author Kaija Langley would deal with the turmoil in the mindset of a child. If the handling would be appropriate for a child, and where it falls on the middle grade spectrum. To my delight it fell perfectly in the in-between and handled every topic with ease. Everything was clear and helpful. I found April arc inspiring but also, I could see it being helpful for other kids going through the same thing.
I sometimes feel that authors can't write children properly in 1st person. Yet Langley proves that it can be done. Due to it not being exactly the story I thought it would be I landed on a 3.75 but would highly recommend!
October 11, 2023
April thinks her life is going to change when her best friend, Zee, a male violin prodigy, gets into a STEM charter school, leaving her to maneuver sixth grade on her own. Now, she is paired with Asa, an awkward white girl who is obsessed with her girl scout badges, and April's love for drumming getting stronger, and stronger like a thumping bass drum. She starts taking lessons from Papa Zee to avoid too much noise for her mom, an Army veteran. Things get worse when Zee faints and has April hide more threatening symptoms from his father. April needs to learn to deal with grief and loss, all while trying to find herself as a musician, and struggling with keeping secrets when she learns horrible things about another friend's homelife. The music that April, Zee, and Papa Zee feel deep in their souls layers through the novel in verse and helps show how community can help heal even the deepest wounds. A great book for those dealing with loss, grief, and pain.
February 19, 2025
I recently read 'Inside Out and Back Again'. I loved it, so I decided to find another poetry book. I was looking around the library, and found that there was queer representation, as well as an aspiring musician, and a tragic event that forces the main character to deal with the consequences of the death of their best friend. This was not that book. The entire death of April's best (and only) friend was one poem. April also did not seem to experience a lot of grief, which makes no sense. The death of Zee felt random, with not much backing it up. I understand he had symptoms before, but it still felt forced. April also hated her mom's girlfriend, with no apparent reason behind it. The poetry also left a lot to be desired, as there was not really a picture being painted, and it felt rather basic. The figurative language was few and far between, and it barely enhanced the reading experience. I very much disliked this book, which was sad, because it seemed right up my alley.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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