Written by Nanci Turner Steveson
Another delightful book by Nanci Turner Steveson. Swing Sideways made for a great Christmas Break read.
Teenager Annie is having a summer of her dreams without the rigid structuring of her life by her highly organized mother. She meets a true friend named California, and shares a carefree summer of adventures at California’s family farm.
As with any relationship it can be put to the test. Will Annie be able to handle the challenge?
Review by Kristine Smith, Hillsdale Elementary Media Center
Rating: ★★★★✩ (4 stars)
Interest Level: 5th and 6th Grade
Annabel, or Annie, is a city girl with a controlling and scheduled mother. The control has caused debilitating behavior in Annie, such as panic attacks and social awkwardness. So her therapist prescribes a summer of freedom in the country. Annie then meets a girl named California and the summer becomes one of friendship, trust, secrets and sadness. Each character struggles, but with love, forgiveness, change and acceptance, they help each other face their challenges. It is a beautiful, well-written book, but beware, it covers some emotional issues.
Review by Heidi Reed, Morningside Media Center
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 4-7
Swing Sideways
Written by Nanci Turner Steveson
Harper, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers
278 pages
Release Date: May 3, 2016
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
