Bev Smith

With tons of imagination, spacey excitement and more down-to-Earth problems, this is an unique read on the journey of learning about oneself and those around you.

Esme is fed up with her family. Her parents and siblings are never supportive, or attentive or anything she thinks they should be. School holds its troubles too. When the teacher insists Esme show the strange new girl around, she's not thrilled until this girl begins to treat her like a real friend. The questions of real intentions, friendship, family and trust are explored and learned in a very unique setting and way.

The premise and setting of this book grabbed my attention right away—a girl who writes blog posts to her mother while heading off with an alien into space. The idea is unique in so many ways, and it works. Esme is a little negative on life and blames her family and school mates for her predicament. It takes her awhile to realize that she has a lot to be thankful for...then, when its almost gone...and learn about seeing herself and those around her with more reasonable eyes. It's a lovely exploration just right for the middle grade audience. Quirky, snarky and unsure—Esme is a character to connect with and feel for, even when she's a bit harsh and negative at times.

Each chapter introduces a blog post in which Esme writes to her mother. She not only explains different situations and experiences but lets her emotions run free. These posts, however, are smooth as a story and allow the adventures to happen and not feel explained. It's enjoyable to read and holds a quick enough pace to keep the reader in the pages.

I received a complimentary copy and found this to be such a lovely read that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts.… (plus d'informations)