Joplin, Wishing

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

Review Date: June 12, 2018

Review

Joplin's grandfather was a famous writer who suddenly stopped writing and has a strained relationship with her mother. When he passes away, Joplin and her mother travel to Maine to sort through his items, Joplin's mother spending as little time as possible in the family house. Joplin finds a treasure while there, a smashed Dutch platter, and takes it home with her. Once it's reassembled, she hangs it in her bedroom, making a wish in passing that the girl portrayed in the plate would become human and be her friend. When a girl dressed in the same garb appears in Joplin's courtyard, she becomes suspicious, and realizes the plate is much more than a plate, somehow holding the key to her mother's mysterious childhood. As the paparazzi swarm around her family's current situation, Joplin, her mother, and the girl from the Dutch platter begin to unearth some family secrets. This fantasy novel will keep readers enthralled as they begin to piece together the mystery surrounding the platter. Realistic family tensions add layers to this plot and Joplin is a strong main character. Recommended as an additional purchase for libraries.

Overall Book Score: good