Bigger Than a Bread Box
by Laurel Snyder
Published: 9/27/11
Reviewed copy from my library (at my request for purchase-whoot!)
From Goodreads:
A magical breadbox that delivers whatever you wish for—as long as it fits inside? It's too good to be true! Twelve-year-old Rebecca is struggling with her parents' separation, as well as a sudden move to her Gran's house in another state. For a while, the magic bread box, discovered in the attic, makes life away from home a little easier. Then suddenly it starts to make things much, much more difficult, and Rebecca is forced to decide not just where, but who she really wants to be. Laurel Snyder's most thought-provoking book yet
You know what? Yay to a recap that does not give away too much of the story!
I really enjoyed this, and I don't think there is enough fiction out there for children of parents who are considering divorce. Snyder nailed the mixed feelings Rebecca goes through at this strange time in her life (ex. she loves spending time with Gran, misses her father like crazy). I loved the magic of the box, and that magic is not always a quick fix for the bigger problems in life. I just loved Gran!
I'm not sure I really understood what was up with the dad, depression maybe?
Snyder's writing is wonderful and thoughtful. I did think the symbolism of the gulls was a touch heavy handed-but they made great decoration for the first pages of the chapters.
I will put this into the hands of kids who want some contemp./realistic fiction with a "hint" of magical realism. I heard this may be a Newberry contender, and that sounds about right to me.
Comments
Heather