Becky’s Comments (group member since Apr 26, 2017)

Becky’s comments from the Mock Newbery 2026 group.

Maybe it is my adult eyes, but I found this to be heart wrenching. The prose and the poetic descriptions made me pause and think about some of the individuals who suffered from the fall out of war. In a way though the book was disjointed. I think certain middle age readers would find of this of interest, but I would not think this would be on a Newbery list.

I loved how the book shows that people are flawed but they can still can grow and change in spite of their flaws. The story will appeal to dog/animals lovers as well and that was kind of fun!

What I loved about the book- the kids taking on a project and making it their own. As I kid, I read the Secret Garden, and i dreamed of making my own. Is wonder how many other kids dream of making a garden in their own or modifying a building into a castle of their own. Ware and Jolene are living the dream. So in a way, Here in the Real World is kind of a fantasy. I totally see the point that going behind adults’ backs is dangerous and shifty, and Ware’s introspection may be beyond his years. Yet, I really liked the book- who knows what my younger self would have thought of it? I do think this would be a contender.

1. The Bridge Hope
2. Other words for home
3. New kid

1 - The Bridge Home
2 - Shouting at the Rain
3 - New Kid

Shouting at the Rain
The Bridge Home
Beverly, Right Here

Thanks for asking that question. I had wondered about dicamillo’s background. What I have loved about this series of books is that though there are those who let you down, there are others out there that you can learn to rely on and build a network/family of sorts. Beverly finds her own people she can rely on - just as Ramie and Louisiana did - I like that glimmer of hope in the stories.

Good to know I am not the only one who did not love the book. It was fine- fantasy/fairytale magic - but I felt there was just too much going on at once - too many little mysteries and red herrings. I think string girls who like a creepy vibe will enjoy, but I am. It sure it will have a broad enough appeal for an award

Ana wrote: "My favorite read so far. Wow, what a beautiful book. A definite Newbery contender for sure. Here is my review:
An absolutely wonderful and heart-wrenching middle grade novel. This story will stay ..."

I totally agree with Anan - real but hopeful to the end. That is what I loved about it. Strong contender!

I do have Saving Winslow ready to read. I will admit that I adored the characters in Louisiana's Way Home. I don't think it will win any awards, but some of those characters won my heart. The topic in the book is heavy, but I felt like Dicamillo presents it in a way that didn't leave me sobbing and heavy hearted and yet still gave me lots to think about and consider.

1 - The War I Finally Won
2- Beyond the Bright Sea
3- Lucky Broken Girl