Reaching for Sun

Reaching for Sun by Tracie Vaughn Zimmer is the 2008 winner of the Schneider Family Book Award. I really enjoyed reading this story about a thirteen-year-old girl named Josie who lives with her Mom and Gran in a farmhouse. I loved getting inside Josie’s head and learning about her hopes and dreams, as well as her new friendship with her neighbor Jordan. Josie’s very knowledgeable about plants, having been descended from a line of knowledgeable women. She also has cerebral palsy, and this is a source of conflict with her Mom, who wants her to get extra rehabilitation, as well as a source of embarrassment for her at school. This book is recommended for middle school readers, but would be appropriate for anyone who reads at least at a third or fourth grade level. The story is written in lyrical free verse. Reluctant readers would appreciate the short chapters and flowing style of this book. The book follows three seasons and ends with the end of summer and a new appreciation for her family, her life, and herself.