True (. . . Sort Of)

I love this book. It is one of my all time favorites to read aloud. It is a beautiful story of friendship and overcoming personal shortcomings. It is about letting yourself be redefined by friendship. It is truly beautiful and holds lots of teachable moments.

While this story has its moments, especially after our hero starts to learn to think about other people rather than only herself, the first half is pretty painful. She is a selfish and self-centered little brat who simply can't fathom why it might not be OK to help yourself to somebody else's brownies without asking. I'm glad she eventually starts to get it, although still feels perfectlyhappy and justified in sneaking around and lying to her parents about her daily activities. And it feelS like the author leans too much toward blaming her bratty, bullying behaviour on the behaviour of everyone around her.I started reading this out loud to my boys, but once it turned into a very serious and sad case of child abuse, I lost my enthusiasm. I suppose some realistic understanding about child abuse might be of interest to an 8 and 11 year old... Maybe... but that isn't what I was looking for when I bought the book.

I loved Ida B. Katherine Hannigan's first novel, so had high hopes for True. In her second novel, Hannigan does not disappoint. It's impossible not to fall in love with the 4 children in this story and the adventures they have. The characters are rich, complex and completely lovable and the story line is full of heart. This is a book that adults as well as children will love.Hannigan has an amazing writing style; simple enough for a child and deep enough for anyone to find meaning in. These are characters who will stay with me. Can't wait for her next novel!

This book is a quiet book about a girl named Delly who is trying to grow up in a world that is boring. She feels like she has to create her own adventure to make life more exciting. But her idea of fun always gets her into trouble. She is about to be sent away to a reform school, when she gets some help from her brother and a new girl comes to town. Then her life changes. People are complimenting her because she has learned how to stay out of trouble.

Ms. Hannigan is a master of the simple story with a meaning and purpose behind it. There are no wasted words. To that end it is perfect for children but also special for moms and dads who enjoy reading to their kids, or just reading it by themselves! Like Ida B., the author takes us on a little journey with a wonderful ending that asks for more...what's next?

Ida B has been on my top 10 list of books since I read it. I couldn't wait for Hannigan's next book.I loved it just as much as Ida B. it was well worth the wait. It will be my first read a loud to my students this fall. Every character is alive, it is like I have known each and every one. Delly is so wonderful, her growth throughout the book is extraordinary and very believable.

This is a good story. I'm a fan of quirky characters like Hannigan and Deborah Wiles write. So that has a bit of that flavor in it. At my intermediate school, the kids are really liking dramatic realistic fiction, so this would probably appeal to them on that level.

This is a great read. It made me - an adult - both laugh and cry. It addresses a lot of issues like self esteem, positive and negative thinking. And shines a light on how we all make a difference and impact others.