Well, this is supposed to be a children's book, but I would not recommend it for any child. It did not live up to my expectations. The story line concerning an 11-year-old girl coping with an alcoholic father while being the responsible person in a motherless home is not entertainment for a child, plus the main character's best friend is a 12-year-old cross dressing boy who is very confused. Parts of the book are very sweet, others disturbing. A good read for discerning adults, but not for everyone. After her mother dies and her father seeks solace in a poorly hidden drinking habit, eleven-year-old Martha takes on more and more responsibilities around the house and with her little brother, Tug. But will she crack under the pressure?This is a tricky one because the cover is very young-looking, but the subject matter is more appropriate for older children - 11 and 12 year olds. The writing, especially the first few pages, is very British and could be a turn-off for kids who have never heard some of these British colloquialisms. I liked Martha and her will to appear normal, but her dialogue with her father didn't always feel authentic. Some of the scenes of her father's alcohol abuse were achingly sad and somewhat disturbing, providing a seemingly real picture of alcholism and how it can affect every member of a family in different ways. I liked Martha's friends, too, they were quirky and supportive when she needed them. The end, though, was too bow-wrappy for my taste, although I can see how some readers would prefer a fixed family.
What do You think about Moon Pie (2011)?
Funny, heart wrenching, realistic understanding of Alccoholism for middle grade.
—christine
The main character's perspective, an 11-year-old girl, felt too adult-like.
—diala
