Cliques, Hicks, and Ugly Sticks
By KD McCrite
Published by Thomas Nelson
April Grace is back, and so is the drama that surrounds her life. After enduring a horrible first day of middle school, she’s hungry, tired, and defeated. But she no sooner steps off the bus when her mother whisks her to the hospital to visit their temporary house guest, Isabel St. James who was in an automobile accident. Isabel is her sister’s idol, which April considers a perfect match since they are both the biggest drama queens.Â
A bedridden Isabel is just the beginning of April’s problems. Her mom is planning the Christmas play and April is going to be in it, she has an admirer at school, and then her mom announces that she is having a baby.Â
I’m a little on the fence with this one. I read the first book, and while I really enjoy April’s feisty character, she is often disrespectful and there is little discussion or action by her parents. I don’t know if that sends the right message. I appreciate a book with real characters so my daughter can see everyone deals with emotions similar to hers, but when there is no evolving of this character, no point in where she learns to bite her tongue and offer some grace and mercy, then it is just providing a bad example.
The other problem is that there is little in the way of an overall Christian message. I am not saying it is lacking, but it isn’t well evolved.Â
With that being said, my daughter really enjoys these books, and was thrilled when I received the second one. I think this could be a great addition to your daughter’s bookshelf as it deals with issues that many girls face growing up, but I would suggest mom’s read it as well. That way there can be a discussion afterward.
I have to give the second book in the April Grace series three stars because of her attitude.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Cover art image was obtained from the publisher’s website.
