Comment

Jul 19, 2011
Charming tween story; a rare look at 10-year old girl coping with emotional waves of daily life. Impressive for a man (author, Kevin Henkes) to be sensitive to issues pertaining to a 10-year girl’s emotional stability—like the trauma of hearing another girl is the “most beautiful.” (At least this is a sensitivity I never acquired despite fathering a wonderful daughter. Or perhaps I refused to acknowledge that anyone needed to be consoled when hearing praise for another.) I envy those who can share this book with a 6 to 12 year old. Despite not having any earthshaking events (fatalities, injuries, weddings, etc.), the story is veritable “rollercoaster” ride of mood changes: ups, downs, and hairpin turns. Junonia’s story is subtle but unforgettable, and perhaps more importantly, this book clearly illustrates to all who encounter it, whatever their age, the potential of writers to explore private internal worlds. It should inspire many young readers to similarly relate their private states for others to appreciate.