One Mixed-Up night

Reviewed by: Amy McInerney - Falmouth Elementary School, Falmouth, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: December 12, 2017

Review

Starring Frankie and Walter, this realistic fiction novel is at once a beautiful story of friendship and a cautionary tale. Best friends for years, Frankie and Walter's friendship has lost its luster ever since Walter's father lost his battle with cancer. Walter's carefree spirit becomes buried under layers of sadness and responsibility for the emotional well-being of his family. In an effort to recapture her best friend's zest for life, Frankie persuades Walter to stay overnight in their favorite store, Ikea. When their families visit the store together, their plan launches into action. Armed with a list of activities to pass the night, the two make a series of misguided decisions, beginning with lying to their parents and continuing as they engineer a zip-line through the warehouse, fill a bathtub with water, and eventually starting a fire. When Frankie suspects they are being watched, a layer of suspense is added to the plot. Newman does a nice job creating an exciting plot that appeals to the fantasies of children: a night to run free within their favorite store. Emotional moments will resonate with readers and atone for the mess the two get themselves into. A fun middle-grade read which will be an easy sell to even reluctant readers.

Overall Book Score: good