Just My Luck [Paperback]

Critically acclaimed author Cammie McGovern's powerful and heartwarmingmiddle grade novelwill appeal to readers who loved R. J. Palacio's Wonder, Holly Sloan'sCounting by 7s,and Lynda Mullaly Hunt'sFish in a Tree. This brave story, told with wry humor, is inspirational, raved Ann M. Martin,New York Timesbestselling author of Rain Reign.

Fourth grade is not going at all how Benny Barrows hoped. He hasn't found a new best friend at school. He's still not a great bike rider—even though his brother George, who's autistic, can do tricks. And worst of all, he worries his dad's recent accident might be all his fault. Benny tries to take his mom's advice and focus on helping others, and to take things one step at a time. But when his dad ends up in the hospital again, Benny doesn't know how he and his family will overcome all the bad luck that life seems to have thrown their way.

Just My Luck is a deeply moving and rewarding novel about a down-on-his-luck boy whose caring heart ultimately helps him find the strength to cope with tragedy and realize how much he truly has to offer his friends and family.

I loved this portrait of a young boy struggling to find his role in a family determined not to be defined by their differences. Bennys brave story, told with wry humor, is inspirational.In narrator Benny, readers find a resilient and very observant 9-year-old who accepts those around him with their strengths and shortcomings alike. His story is insightful and inspirational.McGoverns thoughtful depiction of a family facing difficult situations without fracturing, coupled with a gentle message about not being too hard on oneself, will surely speak to middle schoolers with their own slate of worries.A heart-filled story of a likable boy who doesnt realize that his natural gifts are recognizable and valued by a sl£*