June 3, 2025 by G.P. Putnam's Sons BYR
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Alex has been in a self contained classroom for many years for a variety of unspecified issues that result in a lack on control, but now that he is in 7th grade, he is very interested in Ms. Rosef's science class and the space related projects that they are doing. Tired of Ms. Sharon and Ms. Lori, he asks about being mainstreamed, since he has an interest in NASA and space. He had a violent incident in third grade that resulted in another student, Leonard, having his arm broken, but he has help from Dr. Cuevas and has been on medication. When the self contained unit has a service learning project and run a coffee cart in the school, Alex is upset when this makes the news. His parents also would like to see him spend his time in more academic endeavors, so approach the school about making the change. His friend, Chase, is angry that Alex is leaving the unit, but his Papi encourages him to try this new class. Ms. Lori goes with him to class for support, and things are a bit rocky, especially with Leonard, who picks on Alex for being in a special unit. Alex wants Chase to be involved in the space studies as well, so starts a science club his friend can join. The class is more challenging than Alex suspected, which results in some meltdowns. Eventually, Alex learns how to navigate the students and academic content in his new class.
Strengths: There are not too many books about students in self contained classroom, but certainly many students in these classes who need to see themselves in books. Alex's challenges are addressed in a productive fashion, and he's given supported opportunities to try new things. The interpersonal challenges that go along with this are realistically portrayed. The novel in verse format seems suitable for Alex's sometimes fragmented thoughts.
Weaknesses: I was a little surprised that we didn't have a stated diagnosis for Alex, since students today are not shy about telling me this right up front, and mentioning their IEPs or accomodations. Not every student likes to be labeled, but readers might have more insight into the way Alex navigates the world if there were a few more details about when he took medication, what his support therapy looks like, and the activities of the self contained classroom.Strengths: There are not too many books about students in self contained classroom, but certainly many students in these classes who need to see themselves in books. Alex's challenges are addressed in a productive fashion, and he's given supported opportunities to try new things. The interpersonal challenges that go along with this are realistically portrayed. The novel in verse format seems suitable for Alex's sometimes fragmented thoughts.
What I really think: Readers who enjoyed the combination of challenges and space in Lackey's Farther Than the Moon and Panteleakos' Planet Earth is Blue will enjoy this novel in verse.
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