3.18
Part of "Polka Dot Private Eye" series
"Garbage Juice for Breakfast" by Patricia Reilly Giff is a heartwarming and poignant middle-grade novel that explores the themes of family, friendship, and resilience. The story follows eleven-year-old Trevor, who has been living in a homeless shelter with his mother and younger brother since they lost their home. Trevor is struggling to adjust to his new life, and he feels like an outsider at his new school. He is bullied by his classmates, and he misses the stability and comfort of his old home. However, when he befriends a homeless man named Manny, Trevor's life begins to change. Manny teaches Trevor how to find the beauty in the world around him, even in the midst of poverty and hardship. He shows Trevor how to make "garbage juice," a delicious drink made from discarded fruit, and how to find joy in simple things like watching the sunrise. As Trevor and Manny's friendship deepens, Trevor begins to see the world in a new light. He learns that family is not just about blood relations, but about the people who care for you and support you. And he discovers that even in the most difficult circumstances, there is always hope. Giff's writing is compassionate and insightful, and she skillfully captures the voice and perspective of a young boy trying to make sense of the world around him. The novel is a quick and engaging read, but it packs a powerful emotional punch. Readers will be rooting for Trevor and Manny every step of the way, and they will come away from the book with a new appreciation for the power of friendship and the resilience of the human spirit. Overall, "Garbage Juice for Breakfast" is a touching and uplifting story that will resonate with readers of all ages. It is a must-read for anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in the world, and for anyone who believes in the power of kindness and compassion to transform lives...
Katherine Paterson
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