See you at Harry’s by Jo Knowles –OPTIONAL

Knowles, Jo See you at Harry’s 310 pgs. Candlewick, 2012. $11.55.  (Rating: Violence: PG Bullying, Sexual: PG 13 Homosexuality. Language: PG  (Swears: 0)

Fern’s family is her world. She hates to see her older (and gay) brother, get bullied on the school bus. She loves her little brother Charlie even though he is annoying. Her much older sister Sarah, is a bit too busy to pay Fern too much attention. Just like both her parents. As if the whole family doesn’t have enough problems, an unexpected death sets them reeling.

The incredibly realistic drama made me feel tired and weighted down. Their grief process was detailed in a full and an all-encompassing way. This book screams dreaded English assignment; students won’t stick with this book unless they are assigned to. Issues like grief, loss, and homosexuality need to be addressed. But I think there are better options, that don’t involve 150 page of the grieving process. (Not to mention the first 150 page of bullying and the tiring grind of day to day life).  

MS, HS –OPTIONAL Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary School Librarian & Author.