Fourth Grade Journey

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

Friday, October 10, 2014

The Meaning of Maggie by Megan Jean Sovern...

How I Heard About It:  When I was at a workshop by Donalyn Miller this past summer I saw this book in the display section.  She also mentioned it during her presentation.  I purchased the book that day, but just got around to reading it this past week.  

What It Is About:  Maggie is turning eleven and going to have the best year of her life.  She chronicles her year in a journal that has been given to her as a birthday gift.  She has two older sisters who are very different than she is.  They are more concerned about boys, friends, and looking great.  Maggie on the other hand, is reading up a storm, studying all the time, and prepping herself to become the President of the United States.  Life for Maggie's family is about to change when her father has to quit his job because his legs have fallen "asleep."  The family learns that he has MS and they all need to work together to make sure life works for everyone, including the youngest Maggie.

What I Thought Of It:  As an adult reader, I enjoyed this story and the year in Maggie's life.  I did wonder if this particular story will appeal to middle-grade readers.  Maggie is a one of a kind character and completely enjoyable to read about.  I loved her relationship with each member of her family, including her two older sisters.  It was great to read about a strong young lady that wants to set the world on fire with her brains, ideas, and aspirations.  The story was refreshing to see how a family comes together in a time of need and rely on each other to get through it.  

Who Should Read It:  Adult readers will really enjoy this story.  The book is well-written with a strong plot and incredible characters.  For the middle-grade reader, this book would be geared toward readers in fifth and sixth grade.  The subject matter is a little more mature and the story line would be more interesting to the older reader.  This novel could also work for a mature student in fourth grade. Happy Reading!  

Rating:  4 STARS out of 5 Stars

No comments:

Post a Comment