VIOLET RAINES ALMOST GOT STRUCK BY LIGHTNING

A coming-of-age tale that is as full of sass as its uniquely named protagonist. At 11, Violet is caught betwixt and between childhood and adolescence. She remains very much a child, reveling in hollowed-out tree trunks and playing Barbies with her best friend’s little sister. However, just like the ominous atmospheric changes occurring prior to turbulent weather, Violet’s growing awareness of a developmental shift among her peers leaves her unsettled and unsure. Caught in this transformation is Violet’s relationship with Lottie, which is complicated by the upheaval caused by newcomer Melissa, who has one foot firmly planted in adolescence. Rumblings of romantic changes in her friendship with Eddie also add to Violet’s confusion. Haworth deftly explores Violet’s ambivalence toward growing up with an authenticity that will resonate with readers, who will appreciate her competent management of such crucial tween issues as best friends, fidelity and impending maturity. Violet is a worthy ally for readers navigating their own stormy evolution. (Fiction. 8-12)