Middle school is a transition most of us go through. Leaving the kid like world of a familiar learning environment and entering a new place can be a challenge.

It’s especially true for Greta Goodwin. Not only is middle school starting, but she also hasn’t lost the feeling she is still a little kid not ready for this new place. Added to her anxieties is an upcoming move to a new home with her parents and an irritating younger brother. Much too far from her best friend. Lotti.

When school begins she gains the attention of a boy. The first time this has ever happened. She and Lotti attend their first middle school party but soon are separated and she’s alone with Derek. He immediately has his hands all over her and Greta finally breaks away. It’s a terrible event that is handled appropriately for upper middle grade readers.

Greta can’t tell anyone the full story of what happened, even her best friend. Then the story takes an unexpected fantasy turn. The trauma of the assault changes Greta’s outward physical appearance. She likes having this colorful protective shield even though adults seemed horrified.

The middle school scene is accurately portrayed as is the strong friendship of these two girls. I would have liked to see Greta engage in an honest talk with a trusted adult but the unusual plot takes a different direction. Her feelings are displayed through the dreamlike change with her body. I hope for readers this will be an important starting point for discussion in our real world about what is acceptable in relationships.

Greta is a very moving and hard to put down story.

BOOK BIRTHDAY: September 10, 2024 PAGE COUNT: 208

FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: GRETA by J.S. Lemon

1. There is an excellent back pages piece written by Dr. Alycia Davis, clinical psychologist. She outlines what to do in the aftermath of another person touching you inappropriately.
2. This unique way to deal with a traumatic event will confuse some but inspire many.
3. A great springboard for kids, parents, and teachers to discuss what is appropriate in middle school relationships. Disrespect should not be ignored.
4. I smiled at Greta’s verbal tantrum to classmates who had labeled her best friend in a harmful way.
5. The author hit a bullseye with her portrayal of middle school friendships, both new an old.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

J. S. Lemon grew up outside of Philadelphia, and chances are, so did you. She spent most of her childhood worrying about hair removal and trying to make people laugh. Even though middle school was quite a while ago, it still sits right beneath her skin. Lemon was the first girl, on both sides of her family, to graduate college, and she did so while wearing an “I’m with stupid” T-shirt under her gown. She has been an animal psychic, a mime coach, and a spokesperson for the Crocs Evening Wear Collection—all without leaving her home. Most days you can find her gossiping with her dog and writing until her thumbs ache. Her hobbies include doodling, listening to smooth ‘70s music, and dodging invitations to go hiking. She does a pretty good Cher impression.

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