Sticks & Stones

Reviewed by: Mary Lehmer - Freeport Community Library, Freeport, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: December 13, 2016

Review

6th grader Elyse has a rare disease called CAV. As a result, every word that others say about her or ones she thinks about herself appear on her skin. In spite of this, Elyse decides to try to be the class Explorer Leader. This student gets to be in charge of the end of the year 6th grade trip. But getting chosen isn't easy, and lots of students want the spot. This story has a bit of magic in it, but the idea of words hurting more than people realize, is something that doesn't take magic to relate to. Elyse has to figure out a way to deal with bullies and the mean words they use but still feel good about herself which, with the help of an anonymous friend, she is able to do. I did think the ending seemed a bit unreal and doubt that a school would let students be put in that kind of danger, still, this is a good story about being bullied and standing up for who you want to be.

Overall Book Score: good