EVERY SINGLE SECOND by Tricia Springstubb is a realistic fiction story examining the struggles of middle grade friends in an urban neighborhood.
This story of friendship and families tells the story of Nella, Clem, and Angela who are friends that attend Catholic school together. A school closing, accidental shooting, and medical crisis cause stress in both the families and the local community.
Librarians will find the themes of racial tensions, PSTD, and school closings to be very timely. Youth who enjoy contemporary fiction will enjoy the authentic family and neighborhood situations. The coming-of-age approach will appeal to a broad spectrum of students.
The author’s use of “now” and “then” chapters is an appealing literacy element, but requires readers to pay close attention to the narrative. The addition of the statue’s perspective provides an additional point for discussion for those who choose a “read-aloud” approach.
To learn more about the author, go to http://www.triciaspringstubb.com/.
Published by Balzer + Bray, an imprint of Harper Collins on June 7, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.
