How to Save a Library

Casey hasn’t lived anywhere for very long. He and his father, a librarian, move often because Dad seems to want a fresh start. Casey dreams of living in one place and actually owning a couch that won’t fit into a pick-up truck. They have been in the small town of Cornish for a year, and Casey loves it. He had made a good friend, Addison, at the library when he first got to town, but an unfortunate incident ruined that. He didn’t know how to make it right. When needed repairs for the library turn out to be so expensive, it may have to close, Casey and Addison find themselves thrown together in a last ditch effort to save the library.

Author Colleen Nelson has written a very engaging story that is filled with middle-grade drama, some nasty bullies, great friendships, and family issues that will keep young readers turning the pages right to the end. The writing is excellent and the language accessible for young readers. The dialogue is snappy and completely appropriate for the characters’ ages. This would make a great classroom read-aloud as it would engender great discussions. Don’t miss this one.