What Comes Next

May 3, 2021
After sixth-grader Thea Ettinger witnesses the death of her friend, Charlie, who is struck by a car while the two are fishing, she withdraws into herself, hardly speaking and experiencing guilt- and trauma-fueled nightmares even after she, her parents, and younger sister move away to get a “fresh start.” When the family decides to adopt a dog, Thea doubts that the addition will help, but a loving rescue with a lazy eye gets her attention at the animal shelter and changes her mind about how companionship can heal. Buyea (the Mr. Terupt series) writes this emotional story from Thea’s perspective, surrounding her with an authentically drawn, cued-white cast, including Simon, a younger student who grows from annoyance to treasured friend; compassionate teacher Ms. Stacy; and new friend Rory, who uses sign language to reach out to Thea. Wrapping up tidily with a comforting payoff, this novel of pet adoption and community emanates warmth with a satisfying brevity and unembellished storytelling. Ages 9–12. Agent: Paul Fedorko, Paul Fedorko Agency.

May 1, 2021
Can a dog be a guardian angel in the hardest of times? When sixth grader Thea Ettinger's best friend, Charlie Gabriel, dies in a terrible accident while she is with him, Thea's life is turned upside down. She stops speaking and can't handle school; ultimately, her family moves to another town, hoping to give her a fresh start. When the family decides to adopt a rescue pup, it's the dog (who has a lazy eye, just like Charlie's) who picks Thea--not the other way around. Once Jack-Jack starts sleeping on her bed, Thea's nightmares dissipate, and his companionship leads her back to a more familiar self. Eventually, with the help of her younger sisters, an elementary school teacher, new friend Rory, and others, Thea finds a way to confront her grief and to heal in her own time. While some of the plot points seem improbable and the story unfolds in fits and starts, Buyea, author of the Mr. Terupt series, brings a steady hand to demonstrating emotionally healthy family moments and adults who care, even if they are occasionally misguided. Short chapters contribute to the fast pace and may appeal to reluctant readers. Main characters appear to be white; Rory introduces Thea to sign language that he has learned because his father is Deaf. Upbeat, unflinching, and solid. (Fiction. 8-12)

COPYRIGHT(2021) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.