Book details
Lights, Camera, Amalee
Description
When Amalee's grandmother dies, she inherits a very strange object: a huge champagne bottle filled with over a thousand dollars' worth of change. Amalee is told to spend the money on something important, so she decides to make a movie about endangered species. Soon there's as much going on behind the scenes as there is in front of the camera, as Amalee deals with a new friend, a very cute older boy, her wacky family friends, and other challenges. She also discovers something she never expected to find - a link with her mother, who disappeared and died when Amalee was very little. Behind the camera, Amalee comes to understand that the past can never be changed. But the future? Well, that's another story....
"Williams conveys middle-school insecurities with a sure hand, and Amalee's narration is a treat to listen to." -Horn Book
Age
8-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
192 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Storyline: 'Lights, Camera, Amalee' offers readers an engaging and heartfelt storyline that follows the protagonist, Amalee, as she navigates the complexities of her life and relationships, making it a captivating read for young audiences.
- Themes of Growth and Friendship: The book explores important themes such as personal growth, the value of friendship, and the impact of family dynamics, providing readers with meaningful content that can relate to their own life experiences.
- Creative Expression: Dar Williams, known for her songwriting, brings a unique voice to the narrative, encouraging readers to appreciate the arts and the role of creative expression in shaping one's identity and understanding the world.
- Positive Role Models: Through its characters, 'Lights, Camera, Amalee' presents positive role models and demonstrates how resilience, determination, and kindness can help overcome challenges, making it an inspiring read for young readers.