Reviews

Birdie's Bargain by Katherine Paterson

erincataldi's review

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4.0

Emotional and heartfelt - this novel is perfect for middle grade readers who are dealing with a parent in the military, confusion about Christianity, and struggling with friends. Birdie is upset that their parents have to move their family into Gram's house while her father is deployed for a third time because money is too tight. She has to go to a new school, lose her friends, and sleep in the world's tiniest bedroom. But the worst part is her dad leaving, Birdie is convinced he will die in Iraq. The third time is the charm. She makes a bargain with God that she will pray and honor him if he just keeps her dad safe. But not all promises can be kept. A good fictional account on struggling with religion and trying to process grief and anger. She's also a far from perfect heroine so she is a relatable character for kids to read about.

fionak's review

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4.0

An easy read that had me up way past my bedtime. I don't know what the point of the plane ride was though; it seemed superfluous. And I would have liked a little more resolution on the Alicia situation.

A big thank you to Candlewick Press for the free review copy. And to Mrs. Paterson for still churning them out at 89: you're an inspiration!

gschwabauer's review

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emotional inspiring sad slow-paced

3.0

carolikesbooks's review

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emotional fast-paced

2.0

kayann's review

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emotional hopeful inspiring sad fast-paced
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