3.58
Part of "The Hard Pan Trilogy" series
"The Higher Power of Lucky" by Susan Patron is a heartwarming and poignant novel that explores the life of a 10-year-old girl named Lucky Trimble. After being abandoned by her mother, Lucky lives with her legal guardian, an eccentric but loving woman named Brigitte, in a small desert town in California. The story begins with Lucky overhearing a conversation that leads her to believe that Brigitte is planning to leave her. Desperate to prevent this from happening, Lucky embarks on a journey to find a "higher power" that will help her keep her family together. Along the way, she encounters a cast of quirky and memorable characters, including a group of twelve-step program participants who become Lucky's unlikely mentors. Patron's writing is both lyrical and evocative, capturing the stark beauty of the desert landscape and the resilience of its inhabitants. She skillfully balances moments of humor and levity with more serious themes, such as loss, abandonment, and the search for connection. One of the strengths of "The Higher Power of Lucky" is its authentic and relatable portrayal of a young girl grappling with complex emotions. Lucky is a fiercely independent and resourceful protagonist, but she is also vulnerable and scared. Patron captures the essence of what it feels like to be a child on the cusp of adolescence, struggling to make sense of the world and her place in it. "The Higher Power of Lucky" is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that will resonate with readers of all ages. It is a testament to the power of community, the importance of connection, and the resilience of the human spirit. Highly recommended for fans of contemporary fiction, coming-of-age stories, and character-driven narratives...
Katherine Paterson
Bridge To Terabithia
Like 'The Higher Power of Lucky', this Newbery Medal-winning book features an 11-year-old protagonist who navigates friendship, loss, and self-discovery. Both stories beautifully capture the challenges and triumphs of growing up in a small town.
Learn MoreMildred D. Taylor
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
Set in the 1930s American South, this Newbery Medal-winning novel follows a young African-American girl named Cassie Logan as she grapples with racial injustice and family values, much like Lucky in 'The Higher Power of Lucky'. Both stories explore the complexities of childhood in the face of adversity.
Learn MoreKate DiCamillo
Because of Winn-Dixie
This Newbery Honor book shares the heartwarming story of a girl named India Opal Buloni and her bond with a stray dog, Winn-Dixie. Like 'The Higher Power of Lucky', this novel highlights the importance of friendship and resilience in overcoming personal struggles.
Learn MoreLois Lowry
The Giver
In this Newbery Medal-winning dystopian novel, 12-year-old Jonas embarks on a journey of self-discovery and challenges societal norms, similar to Lucky's exploration of her own identity and beliefs in 'The Higher Power of Lucky'. Both stories delve into themes of individuality and the power of knowledge.
Learn MoreKatherine Applegate
The One and Only Ivan
This Newbery Medal-winning book, narrated by a gorilla named Ivan, explores themes of friendship, captivity, and freedom, much like 'The Higher Power of Lucky'. Both stories showcase the resilience of their young protagonists as they navigate complex relationships and environments.
Learn MoreEllen Raskin
The Westing Game
This Newbery Medal-winning mystery novel follows 16 people who are brought together to solve the puzzle of Samuel W. Westing's death. Like 'The Higher Power of Lucky', this book features a cast of diverse characters and an engaging plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Learn MoreKate DiCamillo
The Tale of Despereaux
This Newbery Medal-winning novel tells the story of a small mouse named Despereaux Tilling who longs to be a knight. Both 'The Tale of Despereaux' and 'The Higher Power of Lucky' explore themes of bravery, friendship, and the power of storytelling.
Learn MoreNeil Gaiman
The Graveyard Book
This Newbery Medal-winning novel follows the story of Nobody Owens, a boy raised by ghosts in a graveyard, as he navigates the world of the living and the dead. Like 'The Higher Power of Lucky', this book features a unique protagonist and explores themes of identity, belonging, and resilience.
Learn MoreKwame Alexander
The Crossover
This Newbery Medal-winning novel-in-verse tells the story of twin basketball stars Josh and Jordan Bell. Like 'The Higher Power of Lucky', this book explores themes of family, friendship, and personal growth, all while showcasing the power of language and storytelling.
Learn MoreJacqueline Woodson
Brown Girl Dreaming
This National Book Award-winning memoir-in-verse tells the story of Jacqueline Woodson's childhood in the 1960s and 70s. Like 'The Higher Power of Lucky', this book explores themes of identity, family, and personal growth, all while showcasing the power of language and storytelling.
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