Mixed Feelings

Sara is beginning sixth grade. With a Colombian mother and an Iranian father, she doesn’t always find it easy to fit in. The first day of school, she wakes up with what, to her, seems like fur on her legs. She’s supposed to wear an outfit that matches her BFF, Monica, and it includes shorts. Then she finds out Monica doesn’t have any classes with her, and Monica is hanging out with another girl, Aneliese. Sixth grade isn’t looking so exciting anymore. Until Sara finds the drama club, that is. On a stage, you can become whoever you want to be. And maybe you can make some new friends along the way.

Middle school is such a hard time for kids, especially those who feel like they don’t fit in. Author Sara Amini seems to have a good understanding of the problems kids face during those tough years. The dialogue is spot on, and the problems are realistic. She has crafted a compelling story that young readers will be captured by. Fun, brightly-colored illustrations by Shadia Amin fill panels on every page and will keep readers engaged all the way through. Young readers will like this and relate to the story.