In many ways, Violet Raines Almost Got Struck by Lightning (Walker Books, August 2008) is a coming-of-age story, but here’s the thing… Violet Raines is coming of age on her own terms and in her own sweet time.
Danette Haworth’s debut middle grade novel is perfect for kids like Violet who aren’t in a hurry to grow up, girls who are still more interested in mud pies than makeup. Violet faces her share of issues — a long time boy friend whose really nice eyes she’s suddenly noticing, a new girl who just moved to town from the city, and a best friend who thinks that glamorous lifestyle is pretty interesting. It throws Violet for a loop, and when her friend’s family faces financial troubles, Violet has to decide what’s really important through all those crazy changes.
There are so many things to praise about this novel — the lively, quirky characters, Violet’s fabulous voice, the Florida-in-summer setting, painted so perfectly I kept swatting imaginary mosquitoes while I read.
I loved this book. Really loved it, the way I love fireflies and lake swimming and ice cream cones in summer. Any kid you know who loves that sort of thing is going to love it, too.
Great review! Now I KNOW I’ve gotta get it! (Even though it was already on my list. Tee hee!)
I will definitely be looking for this one. It sounds like the sort of book I wish I had been able to read and that I wish my 19-year-old had been able to read when she was that age. Middle school can be so tough.
Great review. It sounds like my kind of story! Can’t wait to read it. 🙂
I love this cover!!!
I read the ARC and enjoyed it. For some reason, it took me a few chapters to get into it, but then I was hooked.
A Florida setting? I need to check this one out. I wonder if I’ve met the author at one of our Florida conferences. I assume she lives here.
Great review BTW. Thanks!
Sounds lovely (and since I grew up in Florida, it would be fun reading!)
And it’s a middle grade…hmmmmm. Some of my favorite books have been…
I was lucky to get an early ARC of this book and tore right through it. I loved Violet. I loved everything she went through. I related 100%. She’s walking that fine line between being a kid and realizing that you are starting to grow up that makes her so vunerable and relatable. And the imagery was fantastic. I could really picture the book well while I read.
Aw, thanks for including me, Kate 🙂 I’ve met very few people who did not have a connection with someone on the autistic spectrum. Yay for your brother. I’ll check out the ribbon!
I remember that Kindling moment, too, Kate. Unforgettable collage of writer and writing and light and intensity and compassion and raw truth.
Scribble, scribble, Laurie. Scribble, scribble, Kate. {}
-Pamela