Blooming at the Texas Sunrise Motel

Written by Kimberly Willis Holt

I really enjoyed this book and it was easy to get immersed into the characters. The transition from chapter to chapter was seamless, and my heart went out to Stevie, who loses her parents at a young age. It does touch on some difficult subjects and issues that Stevie has to deal with at such a young age. I think this book is very poignant and enlightening for students from fourth grade into adulthood. The way that Holt writes Stevie’s story is endearing and I recommend it others to read.

Review by Angela Deller, Hillsdale Elementary Media Center
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 4-12

Twelve-year-old Stevie’s world changes drastically when her parents are tragically killed and she is forced to live with her estranged grandfather at his run-down motel. After failed attempts to connect with her grandfather, Stevie befriends the colorful motel tenants and neighbors. Together, they decide to bring some color and life to the motel by planting a flower garden, against Stevie’s grandfather’s wishes. It will take Stevie’s departure before her grandfather realizes just how needed she is by everyone.
–From the Publisher

Blooming at the Texas Sunrise Motel
Written by Kimberly Willis Holt
Henry Holt and Company
336 pages
Release Date: March 28, 2017
A review copy was provided by the publisher.

Tags:

2017 Children's Fiction, Angela Deller, Contemporary Fiction, Gardening Fiction, Gardens Fiction, Grandfathers Fiction, Hotels Fiction, Kimberly Willis Holt, Orphans Fiction, Realistic Fiction