FIELD OF WISHES

An unassertive young girl adjusts to life in a new town and away from her beloved sibling in Mireles’ middle-grade novel.

Leaving home is the last thing 11-year-old Florencia “Fay” Beaufort wants. Her Aunt Carol moves them both to a “ghostly beach town” of Los Pinos, while her older sister, Aurelia, attends college hours away in Washington state. Even before the move, the once-close siblings had been drifting apart, which Fay struggles to understand. What the tween lacks in confidence, she makes up for in warmheartedness, which earns her friends around the neighborhood and at her middle school. Things start looking up when she joins the school’s art club, as drawing is one of her passions. However, budgetary concerns result in the club’s removal, and the students’ only alternative is an art class that charges fees. Fay and a couple of her friends plan a rally in protest and turn to the community for support. As a result, the typically reserved Fay will have to work hard to overcome her anxiety. Mireles, who’s nearly the same age as her tween hero, excels at character development. Fay will easily garner readers’ sympathy, as she’s constantly nervous about such things as socialization and speechmaking and disheartened when Aurelia doesn’t have time for her. A sublime cast surrounds her, including outgoing pal Athena, whose confidence Fay admires, and likably goofy neighbor Donovan. The author’s simple, crisp prose deftly illustrates narrator Fay’s perspective; for example, it’s difficult not to feel disappointed when Aunt Carol isn’t on hand to give Fay advice, or when Aurelia abruptly ends a phone call. The young artist, when happy or hopeful, often appealingly imagines floating butterflies—her favorite subject to sketch or sculpt. Fay’s personal journey, throughout much of one school year, culminates in an unexpected and unforgettable ending.

A coming-of-age tale that’s as engaging as it is inspiring.