Eat, Read, and Be Mommy

Ouch–I missed two posts, and both times I was planning on posting something specific, and–yeah. Things got away from me for a bit, can you tell? I am, however, here now, and I’m thrilled to say that I finished reading Lucky for Good–the third book in Susan Patron’s Hard Pan trilogy–out loud to my second girlie this week. (It’s so satisfying to finish a series, isn’t it? Even one you’ll miss!*) I want to say that it’s more serious than the first two, and yet they both covered serious topics; I think, perhaps, it’s a different kind of serious. Lucky’s family and her understanding of it takes an unexpected direction, while Justine’s religion and how it affects Miles is a topic that few middle grade authors take on in such a way. The most concrete plot thread involves a Health Department regulation’s threat to Brigitte’s cafe, and the solution to that problem is the most carefree aspect of the book.

Ultimately, my girlie and I both so love Patron’s writing style; she’s amusing and thought-provoking, wryly funny and philosophical. If you haven’t joined Lucky on her journey yet, grab The Higher Power of Lucky–and enjoy!

*My girlie and I did sorely miss Matt Phelan’s illustrations in this one, though. Erin McGuire isn’t bad, but it just wasn’t the same.