Doppol - Smart Book Recommendations

Book details

The Heart and Mind of Frances Pauley

The Heart and Mind of Frances Pauley

Published in
2018
4.01
on Goodreads (481)

Description

Perfect for fans of Jennifer L. Holm's The Fourteenth Goldfish and Holly Goldberg Sloan's Counting by 7s, this heartfelt, deeply moving middle-grade debut features an offbeat girl who learns that she can remain true to herself while also letting others in.Eleven-year-old Frances is an observer of both nature and people, just like her idol, the anthropologist Margaret Mead. She spends most of her time up on the rocks behind her house in her "rock world," as Alvin, her kindhearted and well-read school bus driver, calls it. It's the one place where Frances can truly be herself, and where she doesn't have to think about her older sister, Christinia, who is growing up and changing in ways that Frances can't understand. But when the unimaginable happens, Frances slowly discovers that perhaps the world outside her rugged, hidden paradise isn't so bad after all, and that maybe--just maybe--she can find connection and camaraderie with the people who have surrounded her all along.Original, accessible, and deeply affecting, April Stevens's middle-grade debut about an unforgettable girl and an unlikely friendship will steal your heart.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
208 pages

Why to read

  • Emotional Growth: 'The Heart and Mind of Frances Pauley' offers a deep dive into the emotional journey of a young girl, providing readers with insights into the complexities of growing up and the importance of understanding and managing one's emotions.
  • Relatable Characters: April Stevens creates characters that are relatable and authentic, allowing readers to see parts of themselves in Frances Pauley and her experiences, which can be both comforting and enlightening.
  • Themes of Acceptance and Friendship: The book explores important themes such as acceptance, the value of true friendship, and the beauty of being different, encouraging readers to embrace their own uniqueness and the diversity of others around them.
  • Engaging Narrative: With its engaging narrative and well-crafted storyline, 'The Heart and Mind of Frances Pauley' keeps readers invested in the characters' lives, making it a compelling read for both young readers and adults alike.