Laura Peyton Roberts wrote the middle grade story, GREEN. It’s her fourth book. And this one, made it into my town library, where I discovered it.
So, here’s ten reasons to read it, not only for your enjoyment, but to learn storytelling.
1. It’s a totally cute, fun, fast read. It’s a great example of humorous middle grade with the juxtaposition of leprechauns interacting with a human.
2. Lilybet is a spunky believable character who you care about quite quickly.
3. It starts with a bang – literally and figuratively – as Lily is kidnapped by leprechauns on her 13th birthday and brought to the land of Green.
4. A well-developed cast of Leprechauns as secondary characters will draw you into the story.
5. Lily has a clear goal – to pass three tests. Clear stakes – she can’t return home until she either becomes the Keeper (of gold) or quits. But if she quits her memory will be erased – even the memories of her grandmother.
6. Great emotional arc. Lily’s grandmother (the previous Keeper) has already passed away, but she is the motivation behind Lily’s struggle to become the new Keeper.
7. A cute Keeper, from the clan across the meadows, offers a hint of romance and adds his own twists to the story.
8. A hint of mystery. Someone is sabotaging Lily’s efforts to become Keeper and there are many suspects.
9. Good example of a page turner. At the beginning, I almost put it down but each chapter pulled me forward. And once I hit half way and the great twists were revealed, I knew I’d finish.
10. This book is full of suprises. It was unpredictable. I never guessed the right antagonist. I never could have guessed the ending. And I didn’t pick up on the plant and payoffs until the payoffs were revealed.
Definitely worth the read. Kids will love it! And that’s what middle grade is all about. Have you read any good middle grade books lately?
Sounds awesome and really original too. Thanks for psoting this!
I really like Meg Cabot’s Ally Finkle series. 🙂
That sounds adorable! Kidnapped by leprechauns, ha! I’m reading The Mysterious Benedict Society right now. I’m amazed how the author can get into the heads of all 4 kids. Each is distinct, quirky, and fun – not to mention has some trait that moves the story along.
Jennifer – Yes, I really liked Ally Finkle too, though I only read the first book.
Kristin – I’ll have to check out the MBS. I think my daughter is reading it right now. Hmm.
Reason number 11- My daughter’s name is Lily and it sounds like she would LOVE this book. Plus, there is definitely not enough books, movies, paraphenalia for St. Patrick’s day (where I live- In france) and this sounds like a good holiday read. i’ll check it out:)
Thanks for the recommendation. I’m not as in turn with middle grade as I am with YA but have been wanting to read more middle grade. This book sounds like a great read and teaching tool for writers who want to study it!
Well, now I have to get the book. Sounds great!
My last favorite MG is Spell Hunter, by RJ Anderson. I don’t like faery books and I let this one sit for a while before I dove in. I’m glad I finally did read it, because I loved it.
CQG – That was one reason I liked the book. It was so different!
Paul – It definitely showed the reader how being unpredictable always hooks the reader.
Sally – I’ll have to check out Spell Hunter. I don’t read too many faery books either.
Sounds like a great read – thanks for the suggestion! I just listened to the audio version of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. It was such a fun and heart-warming story.
The cover too. Very appealing.
Anna – I enjoyed Edward Tulane. Great writing.
Tina – Yes, I loved the big key on the cover. Keys always invoke mystery.
Thanks for the awesome recommendation! And I love covers with keys.