Matylda, Bright and Tender

Reviewed by: Kris Zuidema - retired school librarian, Standish, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: February 10, 2018

Review

Fourth graders, Sussy and Guy, have been best friends since kindergarten. Neither has any siblings or has had a pet. They decide that they should get a pet together. Guy wants a leopard gecko since he studied them in third grade and knows a lot about them. Sussy's dad takes them to a local pet store to choose one and get what they need. Guy and Sussy name their pet Matylda. Matylda takes to Guy almost immediately. One day the two friends head to the pet store together to get a vitamin supplement when a tragedy takes place. Sussy must now learn to take care of Matylda alone. The story is told from Sussy's point of view. Before the tragedy, the closeness the two friends feel for each other is tender and charming. After the tragedy, Sussy's grief is heartbreaking and real. Her grief takes many forms. I highly recommend this beautifully written novel for middle grade students. Reading groups would have much to discuss.

Overall Book Score: excellent