life hasn't been the same since Nia's mother died. As an aspiring writer, it is heartbreaking to watch her little brother going to school, while her father drinks away the money that could be used to pay for her own education. When her father stops supporting them, though, Nia sees the opportunity to take her future into her own hands.
AGE RANGE TEEN
Interest Level: ages 13+
Reading Level: ages 11+
THEMES
Indonesia
Alcohol abuse
Family
Poverty
Writing
Stories
Cooking
OVERALL RATING 8/10
Heart-breaking yet beautiful, wonderfully written
A heart-wrenchingly real novel; Michelle Kadarusman does not shy away from difficult subjects. This story is a much needed peek into the lives of those living in poverty in this part of the world. With beautiful writing and an enchanting fairy tale woven into the plot, this book has everything needed to be a great middle grade novel.