Author:  Carol Weston                         
Publisher:  Sourcebooks Jaberwocky
Genre:  Middle Grade
Source:  BEA

Goodreads:  An endearing tween story about friendship, family, identity, and inspiration

Outgoing Ava loves her older sister, Pip, but can’t understand why Pip is so reserved and never seems to make friends with others. When Ava uses her writing talents to help her sister overcome her shyness, both girls learn the impact their words and stories can have on the world around them.

Ope’s Opinion:  I have to admit upfront that diary form is one of my least favorite ways to be told a story.  It comes from only one point of view and your information is very limited.

The story of Bea, Ava and Pip was cute and meaningful.  All of the references to palindromes became irritating.  I felt like I was in English class instead of reading a story.  I also thought the story was more for elementary classes then middle school classes.  This was not one I think the parents will enjoy along with their student.

I did like that Ava and Pip learned some lessons. I thought Ava and Pip’s relationship was pretty normal for sisters. I also like the involvement of the parents.  It was good to see Bea involved in some of the solutions for Ava and Pip.

Rating:  Three Chairs – I like this book enough to suggest it to a friend or two.