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Pub date September 10, 2024

Orange Hat Publishing

ISBN 9781645386919
Price $14.95 Paperback, $23.95 Hardcover

Middle Grade Fiction

Author interview

In Bird’s engaging middle-grade novel, a troubled seventh grader embarks on a journey of self-improvement through the craft of baking. Jackson “Jack” Wilson, a young man from Northern Wisconsin, has had a turbulent eighteen months since his mother’s death. Acting out in school led to suspensions and nearly expulsion. His father Norm urges him to channel his energy positively. Inspired by a baking show, Jack decides to honor his mother’s memory by baking, using her old recipes. Meanwhile, Norm is preparing for his own culinary challenge. As father and son delve into their respective pursuits, they bond over shared cooking sessions, slowly healing their strained relationship. 

The characters in the novel, including Jack’s friends like Pogo and Carlos, are richly drawn and lend complexity to the narrative. Their interactions and dynamics ring true, pulling readers into Jack’s world with ease. The small-town atmosphere enhances the sense of belonging and emotional connections between the characters, making Alwyn a character in its own right within the narrative. Bird’s writing style is descriptive and evocative, painting vivid scenes that capture the essence of each moment. The novel’s exploration of grief is poignant and resonant, offering a sensitive portrayal of loss and healing. A moving and uplifting read that celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of love, community, and self-discovery; a must-have purchase for all middle grade collections.

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