Dreamer, Wisher, Liar by Charise Mercile Harper –OPTIONAL

Harper, Charise Mercile  Dreamer, Wisher, Liar 352 pgs. Balzer + Bray, 2014. $16.99 Content: Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G Violence: G.

Ash’s best friend in the whole world, Lucy is moving. Worst yet, Lucy is off to summer camp for most of the summer and Ash is stuck at home babysitting a little girl named Claire. Ash discovers a magic jar in the basement and discovers a different perspective on friendship. Ash also finds out that taking care of Claire is at once more fun and different than she thought. Ash also gains unexpected insight about her mom.

I was wildly excited to read this longer book by this author, but sort of felt this read was a bit of a chore. I maybe dreaded reading about Ash babysitting more than Ash did. I didn’t do a great job of explaining the complex plot of this book.  It’s a long and involved story with many characters. I don’t think that elementary students will have an easy time relating to Ash’s special disability. I think students will miss the many subtle and potentially wonderful messages presented by this book. I usually adore books this author, but not this book.

EL –OPTIONAL Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary School Librarian & Author.