Fourth Grade Journey

A Fourth Grade Teacher's Journey Through the World of Books

Friday, October 17, 2014

Rain, Reign by Ann M. Martin...

How I Heard About It:  This title was being tossed around on Twitter several times so when I saw it on the shelf at the book store I grabbed it and couldn't wait to read.  We are presently on fall break (MEA) so when I picked it up yesterday, I could not put it down until I finished.  

What It Is About:  Rose is diagnosed on the Asperger's Syndrome spectrum.  She lives with her "cold" father.  Her mother has left the two of them.  Rose has an aid at school to help her through those difficult moments when she gets stuck.  She has a passion for homonyms, prime numbers, and following rules.  Rose's life isn't easy, but her dog Rain brings her joy, security, and a best friend that she doesn't have at school.  Besides Rain, Rose also relies on her uncle who couldn't be more different from her own father.  When I hurricane hits their  town, life comes to a stop for Rose's family, but Rain ends up out in the elements and doesn't return.  Rose and her uncle do everything in their power to find Rain.  During their search they learn something quite shocking about Rain that will forever change Rose's life and her relationships.

What I Thought Of It:  I absolutely loved this book.  I loved it so much that I Tweeted the author and send her a message via Facebook.  I wanted to let her know how much I appreciated her writing this book.  Once I started the book, I could not put it down.  I finally had to lay it down last night when I couldn't keep my eyes open anymore, but finished it right away this morning.  Rose was sweet, endearing, and a girl that all of us would love to get to know.  The relationship between Rose and Rain was one of a kind and one that all dog lovers will be able to relate to.  I also thought the relationship between Rose and her uncle was so awesome to read about.  Everyone needs an uncle like this.  I'm so excited to share this title with my fourth graders because I know they will enjoy it as much as I did.

Who Should Read It:  This is the perfect novel for fourth graders.  It would make for a strong read aloud or for a stand alone book.  I'm thinking of choosing this novel for an upcoming "Breakfast with Books" book club selection.  A strong reader in third grade could also handle it quite easily.  Readers in fifth and sixth grade would also enjoy the book.  If you have a dog lover, a student with Asperger's, or just an avid reader; then this is the novel for them.  Happy Reading...



Rating:  5+ STARS out of 5 Stars


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