TIPS FOR MAGICIANS

Harrison is a kid who needs a little magic in his life.

In fact, he needs a lot—more than the avid amateur magician can get from one of his card tricks. His mother was a professional singer, and the Virginia seventh grader always enjoyed the beauty of her soprano tone. The soft, warm glow of her voice held him like a hug. Since her death, however, he can’t even listen to recordings of her singing anymore, at least not with Dad around; it makes his father too sad. So, when Dad asks whether he would like to go see his Aunt Maggie, who runs a gallery in the arts town of Muse in the southern Utah desert, Harrison is delighted. He has fond memories of spending a family summer there years earlier. Then Dad tells Harrison that his new job will take him on the road for six months—Harrison will be moving on his own, and he is crushed.This is a story of friendship and growing self-awareness: Harrison makes new connections in Muse and discovers an inner vein of self-reliance. Comforting to those who are struggling with loss, it will also appeal to sensitive readers as it explores the depths of grief and the search for meaning in a world that no longer makes sense. Harrison and his family are White; there is ethnic diversity in the supporting cast.

A sweet, touching, easy read.