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How High the Moon
In this tender novel set in 1955 Mill Town, Wisconsin, Sandra Kring explores the complicated bond between mothers and daughters, the pressure to conform, and the meaning of friendship and family.
Ten-year-old Isabella “Teaspoon” Marlene has been a handful ever since her mother, Catty, dumped her with an old boyfriend and ran off to Hollywood. Teaspoon fights, fibs, never stops singing, and is as unpredictable and fearless as a puppy off its leash. Still, Teddy Favors, a man who has taken his share of kicks, is determined to raise her right.
Teaspoon wants to be better for Teddy—even if that means agreeing to take part in a do-gooder mentorship program and being paired up with Brenda Bloom, the beautiful reigning Sweetheart of Mill Town. Against all odds, as the summer passes, this unlikely duo discover a special friendship as they face personal challenges, determined to follow their hearts instead of convention.
It’s while Brenda and Teaspoon are putting together the grandest show the Starlight Theater has ever seen that Catty returns to Mill Town, shattering illusions and testing loyalties. But by the final curtain call, one determined little girl shows an entire town the healing that can happen when you let your heart take center stage.
Ten-year-old Isabella “Teaspoon” Marlene has been a handful ever since her mother, Catty, dumped her with an old boyfriend and ran off to Hollywood. Teaspoon fights, fibs, never stops singing, and is as unpredictable and fearless as a puppy off its leash. Still, Teddy Favors, a man who has taken his share of kicks, is determined to raise her right.
Teaspoon wants to be better for Teddy—even if that means agreeing to take part in a do-gooder mentorship program and being paired up with Brenda Bloom, the beautiful reigning Sweetheart of Mill Town. Against all odds, as the summer passes, this unlikely duo discover a special friendship as they face personal challenges, determined to follow their hearts instead of convention.
It’s while Brenda and Teaspoon are putting together the grandest show the Starlight Theater has ever seen that Catty returns to Mill Town, shattering illusions and testing loyalties. But by the final curtain call, one determined little girl shows an entire town the healing that can happen when you let your heart take center stage.
356 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
February 12, 2010
I won this book through Goodreads First Read Giveaway.
The book is set in 1955 where the narrator is a 10 year old girl whos 'ma' left to achive her dream of being a Hollywood actress. Teaspoon is left with the boyfriend for 5 years where she suffers come 'afflictions' and joins a group called the Sunshine Sisters where she hopes to learn how to be 'respectable' by Brenda, her Big Sister.
The book was cute in its own way. Teaspoon was a little bundle of energy that you could feel radiating through the pages. Many of the characters had personalities that jumped right out at you.The story was very predictable which made me not want to stop three-fourths of the way through. There were no interesting plot twists, just a cute story.
One thing that got really irritating was the constant use of 'afflictions', 'respectable', and 'Juciy Jitterbug' If I never read or hear those words ever again it will be too soon.
I liked the book but not enough to highly recommend it to my friends. I will probably pass on my copy to a friend that might want to read it because there isn't anything I can do with it.
The book is set in 1955 where the narrator is a 10 year old girl whos 'ma' left to achive her dream of being a Hollywood actress. Teaspoon is left with the boyfriend for 5 years where she suffers come 'afflictions' and joins a group called the Sunshine Sisters where she hopes to learn how to be 'respectable' by Brenda, her Big Sister.
The book was cute in its own way. Teaspoon was a little bundle of energy that you could feel radiating through the pages. Many of the characters had personalities that jumped right out at you.The story was very predictable which made me not want to stop three-fourths of the way through. There were no interesting plot twists, just a cute story.
One thing that got really irritating was the constant use of 'afflictions', 'respectable', and 'Juciy Jitterbug' If I never read or hear those words ever again it will be too soon.
I liked the book but not enough to highly recommend it to my friends. I will probably pass on my copy to a friend that might want to read it because there isn't anything I can do with it.
May 27, 2010
Even a less than great Sandra Kring book is still sweet and engaging, but this somehow missed the mark for me. The now-required element of a precocious little girl starts out charming and then begins to wear. Many of the characters are caricatures, and I couldn't help but start to worry that Teaspoon's naivete had strained credibility to the point of her seeming dim. OK if you want something cute, but be prepared for manufactured melodrama.
May 4, 2010
It's 1955 in Milltown, Wisconsin, where ten year old Isabella "Teaspoon" Marlene lives. She is a sweet but outspoken little girl, who misses her mother and wonders when she will be coming home. Teaspoon's mother left her with her boyfriend Teddy, telling her that she had "dreams to chase", and she then took off for a career in Hollywood.
Teddy is man who care deeply for Teaspoon. She tells people, "Teddy is the boyfriend Ma left me with", but "Teddy is as good as Jesus". Poor Teddy has his work cut out for him. He learns that Teaspoon has let her school work slide, and that she might not get promoted to the sixth grade. She also starts getting into fights, so something has to change. She reluctantly joins a group called The Sunshine Sisters, a mentoring program, aimed at changing the direction in life of wayward children. Her role models to date have been the Taxi Stand ladies who stand on the corner by the drug store, wear too much makeup and perfume and dress in skimpy, flashy clothing. To make matters worst they have taken a liking to Teaspoon.
Her Sunshine Sister experience pairs Teaspoon up with Brenda Bloom, and an unlikely bond is formed. A summer performance at the Starlight Theater Group, where Teaspoon gets to sing, has made a positive impact on her. She even hires the Taxi Stand ladies to do the makeup of those performing. Now she dreams about a possible singing career in her future.
MY THOUGHTS - There is so much more I could say about this wonderful story, but I don't want to give away too much detail. However, if you love coming of age stories set in small town America, with characters you will grow to love and care about, then this book will appeal to you. Not only for baby boomers like me, but people of all ages will fall in love with the memorable Teaspoon, the precocious narrator, of this beautifully written, bittersweet story. There are also other sweet characters (not mentioned in this review) that will hold your interest as well. This is one novel that I was sad to see end.
I have read every novel that Sandra Kring has written, and she has become one of my favorite writers. If you have not tried this author ---you must. There are other wonderful coming of age stories by Kring as well. Most take place in the 1950's-60's, The Book of Bright Ideas; Carry Me Home; and Thank You for All Things. I highly recommend this author, and look forward to her next novel, which I am hoping will be a sequel to my favorite: The Book of Bright Ideas.
Teddy is man who care deeply for Teaspoon. She tells people, "Teddy is the boyfriend Ma left me with", but "Teddy is as good as Jesus". Poor Teddy has his work cut out for him. He learns that Teaspoon has let her school work slide, and that she might not get promoted to the sixth grade. She also starts getting into fights, so something has to change. She reluctantly joins a group called The Sunshine Sisters, a mentoring program, aimed at changing the direction in life of wayward children. Her role models to date have been the Taxi Stand ladies who stand on the corner by the drug store, wear too much makeup and perfume and dress in skimpy, flashy clothing. To make matters worst they have taken a liking to Teaspoon.
Her Sunshine Sister experience pairs Teaspoon up with Brenda Bloom, and an unlikely bond is formed. A summer performance at the Starlight Theater Group, where Teaspoon gets to sing, has made a positive impact on her. She even hires the Taxi Stand ladies to do the makeup of those performing. Now she dreams about a possible singing career in her future.
MY THOUGHTS - There is so much more I could say about this wonderful story, but I don't want to give away too much detail. However, if you love coming of age stories set in small town America, with characters you will grow to love and care about, then this book will appeal to you. Not only for baby boomers like me, but people of all ages will fall in love with the memorable Teaspoon, the precocious narrator, of this beautifully written, bittersweet story. There are also other sweet characters (not mentioned in this review) that will hold your interest as well. This is one novel that I was sad to see end.
I have read every novel that Sandra Kring has written, and she has become one of my favorite writers. If you have not tried this author ---you must. There are other wonderful coming of age stories by Kring as well. Most take place in the 1950's-60's, The Book of Bright Ideas; Carry Me Home; and Thank You for All Things. I highly recommend this author, and look forward to her next novel, which I am hoping will be a sequel to my favorite: The Book of Bright Ideas.
February 21, 2010
How High the Moon: A Novel, by Sandra Kring, was the first book I received from Goodreads' First Reads. Initially, when I started to read the book, and became aware that the story is told from a 10 year old's point of view, I was somewhat skeptical; adult authors generally have trouble portraying the vocabulary, mannerisms, and observations of youngsters, either expressing them too simplistically or with too much of an adult view, but I was very pleasantly surprised. Ms. Kring captured perfectly the life, times, thoughts, and wonder of a young girl's tumultuous summer in a small town in 1955, and through her eyes, the lives of a number of residents of Mill Town, Wisconsin. In a way it reminded me of Thorton Wilder's play Our Town.
The style of the book was reminiscent of the non-judgmental observations of Steinbeck, mixed with the wit and wisdom of Twain. Though the story was fairly low-key, with no major dramatic upheavals, it did cover the entire gamut of emotions: I laughed, cried, and in the end came away with the reminder that life is, after all, quite the wondrous thing.
How High the Moon: A Novel will possibly not go down as one of the all-time "great" books, but it was better than many I've read. All in all, a very enjoyable read.
The style of the book was reminiscent of the non-judgmental observations of Steinbeck, mixed with the wit and wisdom of Twain. Though the story was fairly low-key, with no major dramatic upheavals, it did cover the entire gamut of emotions: I laughed, cried, and in the end came away with the reminder that life is, after all, quite the wondrous thing.
How High the Moon: A Novel will possibly not go down as one of the all-time "great" books, but it was better than many I've read. All in all, a very enjoyable read.
March 2, 2016
Teaspoon is a girl with music in her bones. One of her many afflictions is humming or singing just about all the time. Her mom left town for Hollywood back when she 5 (she is now 10), and ever since she has lived with her mom's ex-boyfriend Teddy. Teddy is good and respectable and trying really hard to raise her up right, but he has to work long hours, and she has a lot of time to herself.
Then she unwillingly becomes a part of the Sunshine Sisters program, paired up with town sweetheart Brenda Bloom. The two form an unlikely friendship and manage to teach other a thing or two about life. Then her Mama blows back into town and everything may change forever.
Though it's written from the perspective of a 10-year-old, this is not a kids' book. A couple of the minor characters use bad language frequently, 2 of Teaspoon's friends are the Taxi Stand Ladies (prostitutes), and there's quite a bit of talk about the Juicy Jitterbug (sex), though none onscreen.
Teaspoon herself wormed her way into my affections, though I found myself rolling my eyes at some of her longer speeches. With her, what you see is what you get--she tells it like it is, even when it makes others uncomfortable. The ending was pretty predictable.
Then she unwillingly becomes a part of the Sunshine Sisters program, paired up with town sweetheart Brenda Bloom. The two form an unlikely friendship and manage to teach other a thing or two about life. Then her Mama blows back into town and everything may change forever.
Though it's written from the perspective of a 10-year-old, this is not a kids' book. A couple of the minor characters use bad language frequently, 2 of Teaspoon's friends are the Taxi Stand Ladies (prostitutes), and there's quite a bit of talk about the Juicy Jitterbug (sex), though none onscreen.
Teaspoon herself wormed her way into my affections, though I found myself rolling my eyes at some of her longer speeches. With her, what you see is what you get--she tells it like it is, even when it makes others uncomfortable. The ending was pretty predictable.
October 28, 2013
How High the Moon is told through the eyes of the precocious 10-year old, Isabella "Teaspoon" Marlene, in small town Wisconsin 1955. Right from the get-go, she is both annoying and endearing at the same time, but you can't help but fall in love with her. Abandoned by her ma (in search for her Hollywood dream), Teaspoon is left with ma's boyfriend, Teddy. Teaspoon is a handful - cussing, fighting and fearless. The incessant talking alone would break even the most patient; but not Teddy, a kind soul with a soft heart, he tries to raise her proper.
With the threat of repeating 5th over her head, Teaspoon agrees to enroll in the Sunshine Sisters mentoring program for the summer so she could learn to become 'respectable'.
This was the summer of how life is never what it seems or what we expect. I laughed and cried over this delightful tale because its those insignificant little things done by others, are what help us through our low points. And we miss those if all we have in our sight are our dreams.
I highly recommend this one. 4.5 stars!
With the threat of repeating 5th over her head, Teaspoon agrees to enroll in the Sunshine Sisters mentoring program for the summer so she could learn to become 'respectable'.
This was the summer of how life is never what it seems or what we expect. I laughed and cried over this delightful tale because its those insignificant little things done by others, are what help us through our low points. And we miss those if all we have in our sight are our dreams.
I highly recommend this one. 4.5 stars!
February 11, 2010
I won this in the first-reads giveaway - my first ever ARC, I felt so special :)
Unfortunately I wasn't blown away by the book, though I did enjoy it in the moment. It was entertaining, but extremely predictable and didn't break any new ground. I see this as one of those YA books that teens will love, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend it to adult readers, because the story has been done before, and better.
Teaspoon was an engaging narrator, though, and it was fun to see the world through her somewhat naive eyes (loved the "Taxi Stand Ladies"!). I was moved by her relationship with Teddy, her mom's boyfriend, and the friendship she built with Charlie, who moves in next door. Brenda, her Big Sister, I found less interesting.
All in all, I think teenage readers would certainly find a lot to love in this book, and it would be a great candidate for a mother/daughter book club.
Unfortunately I wasn't blown away by the book, though I did enjoy it in the moment. It was entertaining, but extremely predictable and didn't break any new ground. I see this as one of those YA books that teens will love, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend it to adult readers, because the story has been done before, and better.
Teaspoon was an engaging narrator, though, and it was fun to see the world through her somewhat naive eyes (loved the "Taxi Stand Ladies"!). I was moved by her relationship with Teddy, her mom's boyfriend, and the friendship she built with Charlie, who moves in next door. Brenda, her Big Sister, I found less interesting.
All in all, I think teenage readers would certainly find a lot to love in this book, and it would be a great candidate for a mother/daughter book club.
November 4, 2012
Would give 3.5 stars if I could. This book had several things I typically find annoying in a book - a precocious child. Several characters with extraordinary talent or luck and HUGE coincidences. Sometimes an author throws all of that in a book and I feel like it becomes so unrealistic it's unenjoyable. Sometimes they throw it all in and it ends up being a sweet book with some fun characters and nice messages. Fortunately for me, this time the precocious kid + wild coincidences + gifted cast of characters = a quick, fun read that I liked. The timing was perfect for me, I just finished reading something pretty grim and we've been having a Walking Dead (TV show about surviving - or not- a zombie apocalypse) marathon over the last few weeks to catch up to the current season. A light, funny, feel-good story was just what I needed - if you need one too, give this book a try.
May 22, 2015
Wonderful book with colorful characters. My heart hurt for this little girl and I cheered for the people who helped her to become her best self! I know so many children who have experienced what she did and love the way Ms. Kring describes their stories! Thank you for another beautiful book, I look forward to the next one......
November 1, 2015
Enjoyed this book. Sad, mom leaves daughter with boyfriend to go and follow her dream. Isabella (Teaspoon) tells it like it is.
June 13, 2024
I really enjoy this book. This is probably at least the 3rd time I've read it since I was 10, the main character's age. I really like how the narration doesn't explicitly say what's happening sometimes (because she doesn't understand) but you can gather what's going on (ex. the Taxi Stand Ladies being prostitutes). This is a very sweet and easy read, perfect for when you're trying to get back into reading. The ending is always a bit bittersweet, not just because of what's going on in the story but because I wish it kept going. All of the characters have charm and a certain level of depth because we know a little bit of everyone's backstory for the most part. Overall, a story I never get tired of and I hope I never do.
July 27, 2017
So good, lots of fun.
A very quick and easy read. It will make you happy and sad. Great ending. Sweet book. The main character is adorable.
A very quick and easy read. It will make you happy and sad. Great ending. Sweet book. The main character is adorable.
July 30, 2017
Cute.
March 4, 2018
I am not going to write a new review. Goodreads disappeared my last one. Sweet book, lively characters and lots of music. Highly recommended.
December 15, 2018
Best book I've read in long while
I loved the characters and the story. Laughed and cried. Sandra Kring is truly gifted writer. I can't wait to read more of her books.
I loved the characters and the story. Laughed and cried. Sandra Kring is truly gifted writer. I can't wait to read more of her books.
February 23, 2020
Easy read with a wonderful ending and a profound quote on page 306 about the ones you love leaving you.
September 17, 2021
I loved this girl's voice and character, such sweet innocence and funny too. The juicy jitterbug! I'm still laughing.
March 3, 2023
This was such a fun book to read. It's worth a few days to sit back, relax, and just read.
June 30, 2023
I'm hoping to find another Kring book to read but I am having trouble. Plz write more!
June 21, 2024
3.5 rating
March 6, 2017
If I could I would give this book more than 5 stars. I absolutely adored everything about it.
September 2, 2014
(This book was received as from Goodreads First Reads)
How High the Moon is about a little girl so lovable, so endearing right from the word go, that you think there has to be some fault to the book given that a large part of why 'Teaspoon' is how she is, is because she's been abandoned by her mother. But, of course, little girls aren't left by their mothers through any fault of their own and that's why How High the Moon is so brilliant--and why Teaspoon is so brilliant.
Ten-year-old Isabella 'Teaspoon' Marlene has been raised by her mother's boyfriend for the last five years ever since her mother ran off to chase her dream of becoming a star. Now, Teaspoon (from whose point of view the story is told)is in danger of not passing fifth grade and full of afflictions like saying ain't, singing all of the time-she wants to be a star, too-and getting in fist fights. Her teacher, sure her troubles are the result of a 'lack of feminine influence' in her life sign her up for the Sunshine Sisters program that pairs upstanding teen girls with more troubled younger girls.
And that's how the second character, Mill Town's Sweetheart, Brenda Bloom is brought in--as Teaspoon's Big Sister. Then, of course, there's the question of whether her mother's going to stay gone.
I haven't read any of Sandra Kring's books before, though I have seen them, loved the covers and thought about it, so I'm pretty much overjoyed to have gotten this book from Goodreads First Reads. Set in 1955 and told by a ten-year-old, I was a little worried about this to be honest (it sounded cute but then I wasn't completely sure)--but then I loved it.
There was an amazing assortment of characters (Teaspoon, Teddy, Brenda, Charlie, The Jacksons, and quite a few more) that all had their own purpose within the story and progressed things. I'll admit to having some trouble keeping some of the Jackson kids straight because there were quite a few with same letter names, but that's about all. And all of the characters seemed to fit within the period but were also entertaining and fun to read about in a modern book.
And I thought the story being told from Teaspoon's view was done really well. It didn't feel juvenile even though it was being told by a child, or too young for teens or adults to enjoy but it also didn't feel too grown up to fit with her. There was that childhood innocence and naivete that kept her lovable and cute and endearing but also brought back memories of when you were ten and didn't quite know what all the adults were talking about. It also worked well to have the kids overhearing conversations because elements of the plot were brought in that there was no other reason for her to know about, but that the reader could then know about.
The relationships between Teddy and Teaspoon, Charlie and Teaspoon, and Brenda and Teaspoon were all strong in their own right and developed well and allowed you to care about all of the characters. And her relationship with her mother (or what she's keeping in her head, too) was also...I want to say bittersweet.
And a good bit of it's set in this fantastic movie theatre with stars on the ceiling...and now I want to have a movie theatre like that.
It wasn't the least predictable book ever (but it didn't need to be) but there were also some parts that were really, really not predictable and it really has a whallop of an ending. One part of the ending of this book made me cry, actually.
I think How High the Moon is a book the sort of book that a lot of other books are trying to be, one with characters you can really love, a story you won't forget, and a great conclusion. I know I'm recommending this to a lot of people (and not just on here).
Though this is not a YA book, I see very little if not nothing at all stopping YA readers from reading it.
10/10
thank you to Goodreads First Reads program for this book
How High the Moon is about a little girl so lovable, so endearing right from the word go, that you think there has to be some fault to the book given that a large part of why 'Teaspoon' is how she is, is because she's been abandoned by her mother. But, of course, little girls aren't left by their mothers through any fault of their own and that's why How High the Moon is so brilliant--and why Teaspoon is so brilliant.
Ten-year-old Isabella 'Teaspoon' Marlene has been raised by her mother's boyfriend for the last five years ever since her mother ran off to chase her dream of becoming a star. Now, Teaspoon (from whose point of view the story is told)is in danger of not passing fifth grade and full of afflictions like saying ain't, singing all of the time-she wants to be a star, too-and getting in fist fights. Her teacher, sure her troubles are the result of a 'lack of feminine influence' in her life sign her up for the Sunshine Sisters program that pairs upstanding teen girls with more troubled younger girls.
And that's how the second character, Mill Town's Sweetheart, Brenda Bloom is brought in--as Teaspoon's Big Sister. Then, of course, there's the question of whether her mother's going to stay gone.
I haven't read any of Sandra Kring's books before, though I have seen them, loved the covers and thought about it, so I'm pretty much overjoyed to have gotten this book from Goodreads First Reads. Set in 1955 and told by a ten-year-old, I was a little worried about this to be honest (it sounded cute but then I wasn't completely sure)--but then I loved it.
There was an amazing assortment of characters (Teaspoon, Teddy, Brenda, Charlie, The Jacksons, and quite a few more) that all had their own purpose within the story and progressed things. I'll admit to having some trouble keeping some of the Jackson kids straight because there were quite a few with same letter names, but that's about all. And all of the characters seemed to fit within the period but were also entertaining and fun to read about in a modern book.
And I thought the story being told from Teaspoon's view was done really well. It didn't feel juvenile even though it was being told by a child, or too young for teens or adults to enjoy but it also didn't feel too grown up to fit with her. There was that childhood innocence and naivete that kept her lovable and cute and endearing but also brought back memories of when you were ten and didn't quite know what all the adults were talking about. It also worked well to have the kids overhearing conversations because elements of the plot were brought in that there was no other reason for her to know about, but that the reader could then know about.
The relationships between Teddy and Teaspoon, Charlie and Teaspoon, and Brenda and Teaspoon were all strong in their own right and developed well and allowed you to care about all of the characters. And her relationship with her mother (or what she's keeping in her head, too) was also...I want to say bittersweet.
And a good bit of it's set in this fantastic movie theatre with stars on the ceiling...and now I want to have a movie theatre like that.
It wasn't the least predictable book ever (but it didn't need to be) but there were also some parts that were really, really not predictable and it really has a whallop of an ending. One part of the ending of this book made me cry, actually.
I think How High the Moon is a book the sort of book that a lot of other books are trying to be, one with characters you can really love, a story you won't forget, and a great conclusion. I know I'm recommending this to a lot of people (and not just on here).
Though this is not a YA book, I see very little if not nothing at all stopping YA readers from reading it.
10/10
thank you to Goodreads First Reads program for this book
April 6, 2010
Please note: I received an ARC of this book through the First Reads program. The book itself is scheduled for publication 4/27.
I don't necessarily read a lot of general fiction, not because I don't like it, but because as a genre it just seems so broad. When a book could be about anything, how do you pick one you'll like? That said, I'm a real character person, and if the characterization is strong enough, I can like a book on practically any subject, even if my brain has to stay in the present day (or close to it) or real world to do so.
How High the Moon takes the reader back to 1955 Mill Town, Wisconsin, and introduces him/her to the irrepressible Teaspoon, one of my favorite protagonists in recent fiction. At ten years old, Teaspoon is one for whom the term "hoyden" might have been coined; in danger of failing fifth grade, she is prone to swearing, pocketing her Sunday School money, and sneaking into the Star Light theater to watch movies. She was abandoned by her mother, an aspiring movie star, who passed on to her daughter her aspirations of fame. Teaspoon, who lives with her mother's (former) boyfriend, is what we might nowadays term "at risk"; in an attempt to rescue her, her teacher refers Teaspoon to a new program called the Sunshine Girls, which pairs her up with an older girl as mentor. In Teaspoon's case, her mentor is Brenda Bloom, a wealthy and beautiful high school student whom everyone considers the town sweetheart. But just like Teaspoon, Brenda is more than she seems, and their new friendship will have a profound impact on both these girls.
One of the things I liked the most about this book was the first person narrative; not only does Teaspoon's personality come across, but so does her ten-year-old understanding of the adult world. For example, two of Teaspoon's best friends are the women she calls the Taxi Stand ladies, and she doesn't understand (as we do) what these women really are. Teaspoon also befriends a chubby eight-year-old boy, Charlie, without letting herself refer to him as a friend, thus preserving the gender and age group hierarchy children value so much. Teaspoon is also on the cusp of adolescence, with a burgeoning crush on Johnny Jackson, though it's made clear throughout the book that she doesn't really understand how sex works.
After Teaspoon, my favorite character in How High the Moon is her father figure, her mother's ex Teddy. Teddy has raised Teaspoon since her mother's departure when Teaspoon was five or six, even though he and her mother had no permanent commitment. He's not wealthy, has to work hard to support Teaspoon, and suffers financial problems throughout the book which Teaspoon can't understand. Yet he makes an effort to cure Teaspoon of her bad habits, like swearing and singing with her mouth full, puts food on the table, and tries to help her understand and get over her mother's disappearance. Though not so saintly as to be unbelievable, Teddy comes across as a decent man, taking on responsibilities he shouldn't need to and doing the best job he can.
For me, the character development in How High the Moon is its great strength, for while the plot is interesting enough, it felt a bit predictable in parts, particularly where Brenda Bloom is concerned. There is also a revelation at the end that for me comes too soon and with too little groundwork laid. But when you're reading Kring's book, you're not so much wondering what will happen in the end, but how it will happen, and you're desperately hoping for the characters' sake it will all work out.
I don't necessarily read a lot of general fiction, not because I don't like it, but because as a genre it just seems so broad. When a book could be about anything, how do you pick one you'll like? That said, I'm a real character person, and if the characterization is strong enough, I can like a book on practically any subject, even if my brain has to stay in the present day (or close to it) or real world to do so.
How High the Moon takes the reader back to 1955 Mill Town, Wisconsin, and introduces him/her to the irrepressible Teaspoon, one of my favorite protagonists in recent fiction. At ten years old, Teaspoon is one for whom the term "hoyden" might have been coined; in danger of failing fifth grade, she is prone to swearing, pocketing her Sunday School money, and sneaking into the Star Light theater to watch movies. She was abandoned by her mother, an aspiring movie star, who passed on to her daughter her aspirations of fame. Teaspoon, who lives with her mother's (former) boyfriend, is what we might nowadays term "at risk"; in an attempt to rescue her, her teacher refers Teaspoon to a new program called the Sunshine Girls, which pairs her up with an older girl as mentor. In Teaspoon's case, her mentor is Brenda Bloom, a wealthy and beautiful high school student whom everyone considers the town sweetheart. But just like Teaspoon, Brenda is more than she seems, and their new friendship will have a profound impact on both these girls.
One of the things I liked the most about this book was the first person narrative; not only does Teaspoon's personality come across, but so does her ten-year-old understanding of the adult world. For example, two of Teaspoon's best friends are the women she calls the Taxi Stand ladies, and she doesn't understand (as we do) what these women really are. Teaspoon also befriends a chubby eight-year-old boy, Charlie, without letting herself refer to him as a friend, thus preserving the gender and age group hierarchy children value so much. Teaspoon is also on the cusp of adolescence, with a burgeoning crush on Johnny Jackson, though it's made clear throughout the book that she doesn't really understand how sex works.
After Teaspoon, my favorite character in How High the Moon is her father figure, her mother's ex Teddy. Teddy has raised Teaspoon since her mother's departure when Teaspoon was five or six, even though he and her mother had no permanent commitment. He's not wealthy, has to work hard to support Teaspoon, and suffers financial problems throughout the book which Teaspoon can't understand. Yet he makes an effort to cure Teaspoon of her bad habits, like swearing and singing with her mouth full, puts food on the table, and tries to help her understand and get over her mother's disappearance. Though not so saintly as to be unbelievable, Teddy comes across as a decent man, taking on responsibilities he shouldn't need to and doing the best job he can.
For me, the character development in How High the Moon is its great strength, for while the plot is interesting enough, it felt a bit predictable in parts, particularly where Brenda Bloom is concerned. There is also a revelation at the end that for me comes too soon and with too little groundwork laid. But when you're reading Kring's book, you're not so much wondering what will happen in the end, but how it will happen, and you're desperately hoping for the characters' sake it will all work out.
March 1, 2017
loved this book. Teaspoon was adorable.
December 22, 2014
I just finished the book, and I'm rather overwhelmed right now (my nose is a little runny from crying just a tiny bit towards the end). Let me just say this: Sandra Kring just may be my favorite author. If not, she's definitely in the top five. I've read three books by her, and I've rated every single one five stars. (And my average book rating is something like a 3.1).
You can tell just from the book synopsis that this book deals with some heavy material. Ten-year-old Teaspoon's mom abandoned her when she was five. The mother's then-boyfriend raises her as best as he can, but he's poor and has to work long hours to care for her, so she's left by herself a lot and doesn't have a female influence at home to teach her how to be a lady.
But she's surrounded by kind people: Teddy (the boyfriend), her neighbors, her teachers, her "big sister" Brenda, even a couple of street whores ... all people showering her with love and support, helping her out as best they can.
And you know what? That's what I love about Sandra Kring and her writing style. The characters in her books, they don't have magical powers or wealth or privilege. They just have hope and heart.
This book grounded me. It brought me back to what was important, and through story-telling, Kring reminded me of what's truly important in life. Yeah, you need enough money to have a roof over your head, but beyond that, wealth and status and physical beauty will only get you so far. It's love, support, kindness, and courage that really count.
The other thing I love about Kring is that she's so honest. There were times in this book that were so sad my heart ached for Teaspoon. There were also times that were inspirational, or funny, or appalling. But ultimately, the characters take their natural course. There are no out-of-character moments where someone suddenly starts behaving differently for the sake of the plot, to create any sort of artificially cheesy ending. It was honest, and the ending wasn't completely happy, but filled with enough hope to leave me satisfied.
I am so happy I discovered Sandra Kring.
You can tell just from the book synopsis that this book deals with some heavy material. Ten-year-old Teaspoon's mom abandoned her when she was five. The mother's then-boyfriend raises her as best as he can, but he's poor and has to work long hours to care for her, so she's left by herself a lot and doesn't have a female influence at home to teach her how to be a lady.
But she's surrounded by kind people: Teddy (the boyfriend), her neighbors, her teachers, her "big sister" Brenda, even a couple of street whores ... all people showering her with love and support, helping her out as best they can.
And you know what? That's what I love about Sandra Kring and her writing style. The characters in her books, they don't have magical powers or wealth or privilege. They just have hope and heart.
This book grounded me. It brought me back to what was important, and through story-telling, Kring reminded me of what's truly important in life. Yeah, you need enough money to have a roof over your head, but beyond that, wealth and status and physical beauty will only get you so far. It's love, support, kindness, and courage that really count.
The other thing I love about Kring is that she's so honest. There were times in this book that were so sad my heart ached for Teaspoon. There were also times that were inspirational, or funny, or appalling. But ultimately, the characters take their natural course. There are no out-of-character moments where someone suddenly starts behaving differently for the sake of the plot, to create any sort of artificially cheesy ending. It was honest, and the ending wasn't completely happy, but filled with enough hope to leave me satisfied.
I am so happy I discovered Sandra Kring.
December 21, 2014
An engrossing story filled with lovable characters
The irrepressible Isabelle (Teaspoon) Marlene kept me awake all night. I immediately fell in love with her. A ten-year-old tomboy abandoned by her mother, Teaspoon lived with Teddy, her mother's boyfriend. Teaspoon could talk the spots off a leopard, lived a hardscrabble life, but never complained.
As part of a school project, Teaspoon acquired a Big Sunshine Sister, the most popular girl in high school. Neither girl was happy about the arrangement, but as time passed, the unlikely twosome forged a deep friendship.
As the Sunshine Sisters prepared for a gala event at the Starlight Theater, the prodigal mother returned, forcing Teaspoon into making a decision that no child should face.
I loved the characters in this book, which was narrated by Teaspoon. She valiantly tried to correct her bad grammar and loved learning big words. As soon as she learned a new one, she used it, often with humorous results. She also had self-taught vocal talent.
Teddy did the best he could to provide Teaspoon with a normal life. When he was first introduced as the boyfriend of Teaspoon's mother, I immediately thought of a child abuser, and I was glad to be so wrong. How many men would stick around to raise an absent girlfriend's child?
Bobby, a six-year-old boy who could play the piano as well as Teaspoon could sing, became her younger sidekick. Until Teaspoon became a Sunshine Sister, neither child had a friend.
Brenda, the older Sunshine Sister seemingly had it all - beauty, popularity, money and a fiance. As her friendship with Teacup developed, she began to examine her life only to realize that it was lacking.
I loved this book. The story took place in the fifties and admittedly nostalgia for that simpler time played a part in this review. Sandra Kring brought back many happy memories of my childhood.
The irrepressible Isabelle (Teaspoon) Marlene kept me awake all night. I immediately fell in love with her. A ten-year-old tomboy abandoned by her mother, Teaspoon lived with Teddy, her mother's boyfriend. Teaspoon could talk the spots off a leopard, lived a hardscrabble life, but never complained.
As part of a school project, Teaspoon acquired a Big Sunshine Sister, the most popular girl in high school. Neither girl was happy about the arrangement, but as time passed, the unlikely twosome forged a deep friendship.
As the Sunshine Sisters prepared for a gala event at the Starlight Theater, the prodigal mother returned, forcing Teaspoon into making a decision that no child should face.
I loved the characters in this book, which was narrated by Teaspoon. She valiantly tried to correct her bad grammar and loved learning big words. As soon as she learned a new one, she used it, often with humorous results. She also had self-taught vocal talent.
Teddy did the best he could to provide Teaspoon with a normal life. When he was first introduced as the boyfriend of Teaspoon's mother, I immediately thought of a child abuser, and I was glad to be so wrong. How many men would stick around to raise an absent girlfriend's child?
Bobby, a six-year-old boy who could play the piano as well as Teaspoon could sing, became her younger sidekick. Until Teaspoon became a Sunshine Sister, neither child had a friend.
Brenda, the older Sunshine Sister seemingly had it all - beauty, popularity, money and a fiance. As her friendship with Teacup developed, she began to examine her life only to realize that it was lacking.
I loved this book. The story took place in the fifties and admittedly nostalgia for that simpler time played a part in this review. Sandra Kring brought back many happy memories of my childhood.
February 15, 2010
I enjoyed this book. It was a quick, fun read. I really liked the characters: Teaspoon, a spunky 10 year old, Charlie, Teaspoon's 8 year old sidekick, Brenda, Teaspoon's "big sister," and Teddy, Teaspoon's mother's live-in boyfriend. All of the characters, especially Teaspoon, are colorful and interesting, and really jump off the pages. The plot itself is good - not many huge twists or big surprises, but still not entirely predictable. The book is written from Teaspoon's perspective, which is definitely interesting, although I was a bit annoyed by her at points (the interrupting! the impulsiveness! is that what all 10 year olds are like?), but I think that is just the nature of writing from that point of view.
I'm not sure who would be the best audience for this book. It is certainly not for elementary or even middle school aged readers. With a 10 year old protagonist, I initially assumed that it would be appropriate for readers of about the same age. I was a bit surprised at the content - the description of prostitutes, the "juicy jitterbug," etc. This book is decidedly not for younger readers! It would probably be better suited for teens. However, I'm not sure if teens would really enjoy reading about a 10 year old and her adventures.
Overall, a fun read, and recommended for teens and adults who enjoy YA literature.
I'm not sure who would be the best audience for this book. It is certainly not for elementary or even middle school aged readers. With a 10 year old protagonist, I initially assumed that it would be appropriate for readers of about the same age. I was a bit surprised at the content - the description of prostitutes, the "juicy jitterbug," etc. This book is decidedly not for younger readers! It would probably be better suited for teens. However, I'm not sure if teens would really enjoy reading about a 10 year old and her adventures.
Overall, a fun read, and recommended for teens and adults who enjoy YA literature.
May 26, 2012
This was a real gem of a book. Told from the perspective of a ten year old girl (nicknamed Teaspoon) growing up in 1955 Wisconsin, it was sweet, funny and refreshing. The characters were wonderful and felt so real, I got very invested in what happened to them and found the book hard to put down. There were many thought provoking themes to the book, such as following your heart, the trouble with conformity, and what makes a real family....its not always conventional. I wish I could really step inside the Starlight Theater and see that starry sky on the ceiling, it felt so magical. The Taxi Stand Ladies (unknown to Teaspoon to be prostitutes) were great, and seeing them from Teaspoons innocent perspective was funny and kind of eye opening in a way. I loved her 8 year old neighbor Charlie who turns out to be Teaspoons accompanist, and of course Teddy who's so kind and loving it almost breaks your heart. Brenda Bloom, who is Teaspoons Sunshine Sister/mentor is 1950's poodle skirt perfection and her romance with the "James Dean" boy from the wrong side of the tracks illustrates a lot about going against what's expected of you and following your desires. I loved it and will think about these characters for a while. I was satisfied with the ending and was left feeling that everything was going to be just fine. A delight!
February 16, 2010
I won this book in Goodreads first reads. It was a really cute book about a little girl named Teaspoon. She’s so funny, she just rambles on and on about whatever happens to cross her mind, doesn’t seem to even take a breath, but then she always gets back to the point, and sometimes helps people see things without even knowing. She’s energetic and blunt, always telling people exactly what she thinks. She’s like a jack in the box, wound up, all that pent up energy strung inside her, and then she burst out, usually startling people. I found myself smiling sometimes at things she said, and even laughed a couple times.
The story is told in Teaspoon’s pov, different from most novels I read. Kring captures the voice of Teaspoon perfectly. She explores the emotions and problems Teaspoon has, and how she deals with them. While having the story told in a little girl’s point of view was a nice change, it’s definitely not my favorite, and I don’t think I could take too much more. I would have liked the book better told in Brenda's pov, telling her side of the story and having Teaspoon on the side. But the way Kring did it was different and nice.
Overall, it was an okay book. I wouldn’t buy it, but several years down the road, I might read it again. And it could make a cute movie.
The story is told in Teaspoon’s pov, different from most novels I read. Kring captures the voice of Teaspoon perfectly. She explores the emotions and problems Teaspoon has, and how she deals with them. While having the story told in a little girl’s point of view was a nice change, it’s definitely not my favorite, and I don’t think I could take too much more. I would have liked the book better told in Brenda's pov, telling her side of the story and having Teaspoon on the side. But the way Kring did it was different and nice.
Overall, it was an okay book. I wouldn’t buy it, but several years down the road, I might read it again. And it could make a cute movie.
January 28, 2011
The best word I can think of to describe this book is "sweet." Teaspoon is the main character (her real name is Isabella, but everyone calls her Teaspoon), and after being toted around by her mother, she is left with her mother's boyfriend, Teddy. No one knows for sure where her mother is, or when she might be back, but Teddy, bless his heart, steps into the role of caregiver without a second thought. Sweet. Here is a passage that I really liked: Teaspoon had a wiggly tooth, and when she complains that it is hurting her when she bites down, Teddy pulls it for her. Teaspoon was not prepared for this, and commences crying. "Teddy took me by the hand and led me to the couch, where he sat me down beside him and tucked me under his arm. 'I shouldn't have pulled it like that, Teaspoon,' he said. 'I'm sorry. I should know by now that there's some things in life that just hurt too much when you're forced to let go of them before you're ready.'
'What things?' I asked Teddy as I sniffled, because I wanted to know what else somebody might try yanking from my head.
'Well, I guess a lot of things. Hope... love... childhood...'
'And teeth,' I said, careful to keep my yanked tooth tucked up against my cheek. 'You forgot teeth.'"
See? Sweet.
'What things?' I asked Teddy as I sniffled, because I wanted to know what else somebody might try yanking from my head.
'Well, I guess a lot of things. Hope... love... childhood...'
'And teeth,' I said, careful to keep my yanked tooth tucked up against my cheek. 'You forgot teeth.'"
See? Sweet.
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