Status
Available
Call number
Call number
PB Ste
Local notes
PB Ste
Collection
Genres
Publication
Yearling (2010), Edition: Reprint, 240 pages
Description
As her mother prepares to be a contestant on the 1980s television game show, "The $20,000 Pyramid," a twelve-year-old New York City girl tries to make sense of a series of mysterious notes received from an anonymous source that seems to defy the laws of time and space.
Awards
Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (Winner — Fiction & Poetry — 2010)
Wyoming Indian Paintbrush Award (Nominee — 2011)
Massachusetts Children's Book Award (Nominee — 2012)
Andre Norton Nebula Award for Middle Grade and Young Adult Fiction (Finalist — 2009)
Parents' Choice Book Award (2009)
Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award (Nominee — Grades 6-8 — 2011)
Newbery Medal (Medal Winner — 2010)
Great Lakes Great Books Award (Honor Book — 2011)
Vermont Golden Dome Book Award (Nominee)
Nēnē Award (Nominee — 2011)
Indies Choice Book Award (Winner — Middle Readers — 2010)
Oregon Reader's Choice Award (Nominee — 2012)
West Virginia Children's Choice Book Award (Nominee — 2010-2011)
Virginia Readers' Choice (Nominee — Middle School — 2013)
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award (Nominee — Grades 6-9 — 2011)
Volunteer State Book Award (Nominee — Young Adult — 2012)
Best Fiction for Young Adults (Selection — 2010)
CCBC Choices (2010)
The Best Children's Books of the Year (Nine to Twelve — 2010)
Great Reads from Great Places (New York — 2010)
Notable Children's Book (2010)
Idaho Battle of the Books (Elementary — 2020)
Texas Lone Star Reading List (2010)
Montana Battle of the Books (2024)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2009
Physical description
224 p.; 5.19 inches
Media reviews
New York Times
This book has a very nice climax when given. Exciting and has much significance to it. Symbolic and wonderful.
...a story in which characters really come alive during those few months we spend with them, when their lives are shaped for ever.
In this taut novel, every word, every sentence, has meaning and substance. A hybrid of genres, it is a complex mystery, a work of historical fiction, a school story and one of friendship, with a leitmotif of time travel running through it. Most of all the novel is a thrilling puzzle. Stead piles up
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clues on the way to a moment of intense drama, after which it is pretty much impossible to stop reading until the last page. Show Less
Publishers Weekly
Eventually and improbably, these strands converge to form a thought-provoking whole. Stead ('First Light') accomplishes this by making every detail count, including Mirandas name, her hobby of knot tying and her favorite book, Madeleine LEngles 'A Wrinkle in Time'. Its easy to imagine readers
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studying Mirandas story as many times as shes read LEngles, and spending hours pondering the provocative questions it raises. Show Less
School Library Journal
Stead's novel is as much about character as story. Miranda's voice rings true with its faltering attempts at maturity and observation. The story builds slowly, emerging naturally from a sturdy premise. As Miranda reminisces, the time sequencing is somewhat challenging, but in an intriguing way. The
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setting is consistently strong. The stores and even the streets–in Miranda's neighborhood act as physical entities and impact the plot in tangible ways. This unusual, thought-provoking mystery will appeal to several types of readers. Show Less
User reviews
LibraryThing member Smiler69
It's 1979 and Miranda lives with her mother in the heart of New York City. When the story begins, we find out that her mother has just won a spot as a contestant on the $20,000 Pyramid, a popular TV game show. Then the focus shifts when it becomes clear Miranda is telling this story to a particular
This is a very quirky novel, and it took me a while to get into it, because the short chapters seemed completely disconnected at first, but nevertheless I found myself reading on compulsively. One of the few things I knew about the story is that it was about time travel, though the connection to this theme only became evident at the end, by which point all the different threads suddenly come together in a brilliant way that makes you want to read the story all over again. Excellent and definitely recommended.
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person, and she goes on to describe how the whole thing started the day that her best friend Sam got punched in the face by an older guy neither of them has ever seen before. She goes on to describe a series of events and details that seem disconnected; how the kids at her school sometimes have to stay in for lunch because the cops are trying to catch a naked man running down Amsterdam Avenue; how the only book she ever reads is Margaret L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time, which she practically knows by heart; how she and a couple of friends start working during their forty minute midday break for an eccentric deli owner who pays them in cheese sandwiches; how she's always careful to avoid a homeless guy she calls "The Laughing Man", who hangs out close to her building and is often seen lying under the postbox; and perhaps most intriguing of all, about a series of weird notes she finds in unlikely places that are addressed to her from a stranger who insists she can't tell anyone about him.This is a very quirky novel, and it took me a while to get into it, because the short chapters seemed completely disconnected at first, but nevertheless I found myself reading on compulsively. One of the few things I knew about the story is that it was about time travel, though the connection to this theme only became evident at the end, by which point all the different threads suddenly come together in a brilliant way that makes you want to read the story all over again. Excellent and definitely recommended.
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LibraryThing member fyrefly98
Summary: Sixth-grader Miranda's life is not particularly extraordinary. She lives with her mother, who dreams of winning big on The $20,000 Pyramid, in a small New York apartment; she reads her favorite book, A Wrinkle in Time, over and over again; and she walks to school every day with her best
Review: For me, the main reason I was attracted to this book in the first place was its connection to A Wrinkle in Time, which, like Miranda, I also read over and over as a kid. (Although I preferred A Swiftly Tilting Plant, but that's neither here nor there.) I don't think I realized initially that it was mid-grade rather than young adult fiction, although the age of its protagonist clued me in pretty quickly. The good news was that I enjoyed it way more than is normal for most mid-grade books; Stead manages to make Miranda's voice believable for her age without making the book seem dumbed-down or like it was pandering to the grade school set. The plot is very evocative of familiar grade-school issues, but it also has enough nuances to keep adult readers engaged. The only time I got annoyed with the age level was during a discussion of the paradoxes of time travel; Miranda simply could not understand how you could arrive somewhere before you left, despite several explanations by her better-informed (or more imaginative) classmates, which made her come off rather dim, in contrast to the intelligence she displays throughout the rest of the book.
This book is difficult to classify in terms of genre as well as age. In that way, it's similar to Cornelia Funke's The Thief Lord: most of it reads like normal fiction, with the fantasy/sci-fi elements only showing up near the end. When You Reach Me does a nice job of integrating them into the story, though, so that the fact that it's science fiction and not general fiction sort of sneaks up on you as you read. I suppose one could call it a mystery, although I didn't find it particularly mysterious, especially after about the halfway point. It also struck me as almost historical fiction, in its way; a lot of emphasis is placed on the late '70s setting, and I wondered how many of its elements would be recognizable to grownups but completely foreign to today's 6th graders.
Overall, while I didn't find this book to be a knockout the way many people did, I did think it was sweet, enjoyable, and with a level of sophistication beyond what its size might suggest. 4 out of 5 stars.
Recommendation: The obvious recommendation is for folks who, like me, grew up on A Wrinkle in Time, but I also think people that enjoy good-hearted kids' books that aren't as straightforward as they appear will get a kick out of it as well.
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friend and downstairs neighbor, Sal. But everything starts to change on the day that Sal gets punched by a neighborhood tough kid on his way home from school. Miranda must navigate the changing tides of friends and enemies amongst her classmates, and, as if that weren't enough, she starts receiving strange, impossible notes from someone who claims that he is coming to save her friend's life.Review: For me, the main reason I was attracted to this book in the first place was its connection to A Wrinkle in Time, which, like Miranda, I also read over and over as a kid. (Although I preferred A Swiftly Tilting Plant, but that's neither here nor there.) I don't think I realized initially that it was mid-grade rather than young adult fiction, although the age of its protagonist clued me in pretty quickly. The good news was that I enjoyed it way more than is normal for most mid-grade books; Stead manages to make Miranda's voice believable for her age without making the book seem dumbed-down or like it was pandering to the grade school set. The plot is very evocative of familiar grade-school issues, but it also has enough nuances to keep adult readers engaged. The only time I got annoyed with the age level was during a discussion of the paradoxes of time travel; Miranda simply could not understand how you could arrive somewhere before you left, despite several explanations by her better-informed (or more imaginative) classmates, which made her come off rather dim, in contrast to the intelligence she displays throughout the rest of the book.
This book is difficult to classify in terms of genre as well as age. In that way, it's similar to Cornelia Funke's The Thief Lord: most of it reads like normal fiction, with the fantasy/sci-fi elements only showing up near the end. When You Reach Me does a nice job of integrating them into the story, though, so that the fact that it's science fiction and not general fiction sort of sneaks up on you as you read. I suppose one could call it a mystery, although I didn't find it particularly mysterious, especially after about the halfway point. It also struck me as almost historical fiction, in its way; a lot of emphasis is placed on the late '70s setting, and I wondered how many of its elements would be recognizable to grownups but completely foreign to today's 6th graders.
Overall, while I didn't find this book to be a knockout the way many people did, I did think it was sweet, enjoyable, and with a level of sophistication beyond what its size might suggest. 4 out of 5 stars.
Recommendation: The obvious recommendation is for folks who, like me, grew up on A Wrinkle in Time, but I also think people that enjoy good-hearted kids' books that aren't as straightforward as they appear will get a kick out of it as well.
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LibraryThing member Lisa2013
recommended for: A Wrinkle in Time fans; 9 to adult; those who enjoy time travel, NYC, 1979, 12 yr old girls
First I have to say that A Wrinkle in Time has been my favorite or among my very favorite books since I was nine years old, and I’ve never been able to write a true or worthy review for it;
There are dozens, maybe hundreds, of books I wish I’d written. Occasionally, I come across a book I should have written. This is a book I definitely should have written. It touched me to the core in that incredibly familiar way that seems to come from within, not the outside. Some details are “off” of course, but the gist is precisely what I would have written had I thought of it first.
I inhaled this book and read it in one day, which is highly unusual for me, but used to be more typical when I was much younger. It was a joy to read. If I’d read this when I was 10, 11, 12, I suspect I’d have loved it even more.
The time travel part was exquisitely done, New York too, 1979 also, the kids were completely believable, as were the adults. Memories of mine surfaced, never forgotten but powerfully brought to the present. This might not be a perfect book, but I had a near perfect experience reading it. I enjoyed trying to solve the mystery along with Miranda. I felt a deep emotional involvement, which I love feeling when I read a book.
And I sure wish I had Miranda’s gift book!
It also has the most lovely and meaningful dedication page I’ve seen in ages.
I emailed a childhood friend, who also has always loved A Wrinkle in Time, the second I finished this book, to insist she has to read it.
I do think readers who haven’t read and enjoyed Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time can enjoy this book, but I would suggest reading L’Engle’s book before picking up this one; it will mean so much more.
This was a wonderful day, thanks to this book.
Edited the next day to add:
Many parts are very funny.
Unlike many cross genre books, readers don't have to appreciate all the genres; one will suffice: realistic middle school fiction or science fiction & time travel; either will work. Also, recommended for those who appreciate friendship stories and family stories. Really, if you know the book A Wrinkle in Time, add this book to your to-read list. If it's already on your list, bump it up. It won the Newbery and this is one of the times when the book is deserving of the award!
First I have to say that A Wrinkle in Time has been my favorite or among my very favorite books since I was nine years old, and I’ve never been able to write a true or worthy review for it;
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I can’t even try.There are dozens, maybe hundreds, of books I wish I’d written. Occasionally, I come across a book I should have written. This is a book I definitely should have written. It touched me to the core in that incredibly familiar way that seems to come from within, not the outside. Some details are “off” of course, but the gist is precisely what I would have written had I thought of it first.
I inhaled this book and read it in one day, which is highly unusual for me, but used to be more typical when I was much younger. It was a joy to read. If I’d read this when I was 10, 11, 12, I suspect I’d have loved it even more.
The time travel part was exquisitely done, New York too, 1979 also, the kids were completely believable, as were the adults. Memories of mine surfaced, never forgotten but powerfully brought to the present. This might not be a perfect book, but I had a near perfect experience reading it. I enjoyed trying to solve the mystery along with Miranda. I felt a deep emotional involvement, which I love feeling when I read a book.
And I sure wish I had Miranda’s gift book!
It also has the most lovely and meaningful dedication page I’ve seen in ages.
I emailed a childhood friend, who also has always loved A Wrinkle in Time, the second I finished this book, to insist she has to read it.
I do think readers who haven’t read and enjoyed Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time can enjoy this book, but I would suggest reading L’Engle’s book before picking up this one; it will mean so much more.
This was a wonderful day, thanks to this book.
Edited the next day to add:
Many parts are very funny.
Unlike many cross genre books, readers don't have to appreciate all the genres; one will suffice: realistic middle school fiction or science fiction & time travel; either will work. Also, recommended for those who appreciate friendship stories and family stories. Really, if you know the book A Wrinkle in Time, add this book to your to-read list. If it's already on your list, bump it up. It won the Newbery and this is one of the times when the book is deserving of the award!
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LibraryThing member 59Square
Merideth says: This book is just about perfect. Miranda's voice sounds very real, and watching her wake up to the world around her is painful and wonderful. The middle school social dynamic is portrayed with absolute accuracy, as are the dangers and wonders of a big city girl in the late '70's. The
I do wonder however if this is the type of book that adults love more than kids, as both the setting and Miranda's love of A Wrinkle In Time seem to speak to adult readers.
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time travel conundrum is satisfying and puzzling, but almost unnecessary. I do wonder however if this is the type of book that adults love more than kids, as both the setting and Miranda's love of A Wrinkle In Time seem to speak to adult readers.
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LibraryThing member keeneam
This is one of the best young adult books I have read yet this year, and I would place it in my top ten. The plot hooked me from the beginning with its subtle reference to a Wrinkle in Time, and the story compelled me to finish me in one setting. The ending was also complete, but still left you
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wondering in a good way without feeling lost. I would recommend this to anyone and everyone and it might convince current kids and tens to pick up A Wrinkle in Time and read an older book! Show Less
LibraryThing member YouthGPL
This is a really unusual, endearing book, and it’s my sentimental favorite for the Newbery so far. Miranda is a 12 year old whose mother is auditioning to be on the $20,000 Pyramid in 1978 when strange things start happening to Miranda, including a homeless man who keeps talking to her, a male
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friend who stops being her friend, and a new friend who claims to understand the secret of time travel. There is so much more in this book, and it is told in such a great way – it is complicated enough for a smart kid to enjoy. There is love, friendship (new and old), Madeleine L’Engle, some echoes of the Time Travelers Wife, intelligence – it’s all very thoughtfully crafted. I really didn’t see anything that even bothered me in this book. It is a good choice for the Newbery for me – it explains some mysteries, leaves others as wide-open. It is also very tween – the chafing at but also loving parents, friends, and life in general. Very good. Show Less
LibraryThing member bragan
It's the late 1970's, and Miranda is twelve years old. She lives in New York, her favorite book is Madeline L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time (which was also my favorite at that age), and her best friend has inexplicably stopped talking to her. That last thing is pretty sad, but overall, it's a fairly
Ultimately, the basic storyline here is one that seems as if it ought to feel like old hat, but it's so well-constructed that it works beautifully, anyway. The writing and characterization are good, and the author gives you just exactly enough of the right kind of hints about what's going on to keep you feeling engaged and intrigued, and by the time you arrive at the ending, it might not feel entirely surprising, but it does feel right. Or such was my experience, anyway.
Definitely a book that can be enjoyed by both adults and kids.
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ordinary life... except for the cryptic notes she keeps finding, notes that seem to have been written by someone who knows things that haven't happened yet.Ultimately, the basic storyline here is one that seems as if it ought to feel like old hat, but it's so well-constructed that it works beautifully, anyway. The writing and characterization are good, and the author gives you just exactly enough of the right kind of hints about what's going on to keep you feeling engaged and intrigued, and by the time you arrive at the ending, it might not feel entirely surprising, but it does feel right. Or such was my experience, anyway.
Definitely a book that can be enjoyed by both adults and kids.
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LibraryThing member EKAnderson
I'm so thrilled about the release of Rebecca Stead's new novel, When You Reach Me. This enchanting tale of 1970s New York City is nearly undescribable for fear of giving away too much delightful information. Here's what I can say: the story starts with a note from an unknown subject, which mostly
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terrifies Miranda and her mother. Recently shunned by her friend and neighbor Sal - the boy she's grown to know almost like a brother - Miranda is also dealing with the ramifications of being the poor kid at a school full of privileged students. It frequently references an unnamed classic of children's literature (I'd hate tell you which one and ruin the fun of figuring it out). It has so much to say about what we think we know about the people around us - and even more about the mysteries of the human experience. When You Reach Me is a wonderful, funny, and poignant story of love, friendship, family, and some other things I simply can't tell you about. It is, however, a book you won't be able to put down, even once you've finished. Show Less
LibraryThing member kimby365
I read a lot of books. I mean, a whole lot. Not as many as some people, but still, a lot. Most of the books I read are really good (I usually don't get through the ones that bore me, as there is nothing I like less than a book that I find uninteresting), but I'd like to say that I'm not too easily
I could tell you right now what to expect out of this book, but I have a feeling that just giving you a brief description of what happens in it wouldn't do it justice. There's a whole lot going on here that isn't even mentioned on the jacket flap, and spoiling any of it would be cruel. It really is amazing that the book has so many different ideas, yet it doesn't get overstuffed (indeed, the book is around 200 pages and not a word is wasted). Other authors would pick one idea and stick with it; Rebecca Stead juggles it all, and it looks effortless coming from her.
There are a boatload of characters, and each one is unique and memorable. Miranda, the protagonist, is a very likable girl, easy to relate to in many ways. She goes through a lot of the typical twelve-year-old girl stuff, but remains interesting, intelligent, and genuine throughout. All the other kids are unique as well; Sal, Annemarie, Colin, Julia, Marcus, take your pick. (Yes, I think even Alice was more dimensional than the average side character in a middle-grade novel.) They're all distinct and richly characterized, and the way they all link together is twisty and fascinating. The adult characters don't get a lot of screen (page?) time, but the same applies to them.
The colorful cast of characters alone would be impressive, but there's also that little "time travel" thing going on. I read "A Wrinkle in Time" shortly before reading this book, as I was told it would benefit me (there are a lot of references to it in the story, but I wouldn't say it's necessary to read it first), so I think that might explain why I didn't really find the back-and-forth-in-time thing to be confusing. I doubt other kids will, either. Anywho, I'm not sure if the time travel has loopholes in it or not, nor do I care to find out. The important thing is, when everything comes together in the end, it all makes sense. Pay attention to every last detail in the story; they all matter.
I wouldn't really count this as historical fiction; though it's set in 1979, it feels like it could work no matter what decade it is. A few details would have to be changed, but whatever, the story feels timeless. The details of the decade, however small and unobtrusive they are, feel truthful, and not the "That '70s Show" version of history. Honestly, though, if the book was like that, I still wouldn't have minded it considering the near-perfection of everything else in there.
So, what else can be said about this book that hasn't been said? It's remarkable. I don't say that about a lot of books. (Okay, maybe I say that about books that I talk about in long, sprawling reviews like this, but I wouldn't write so much about them if I didn't like them so much.) It is very, very deserving of awards recognition come January 18th. I will be rooting for it, as I have read most of its competitors and, though I liked them, they don't compare. This is really something else, and no matter what kind of book you like, "When You Reach Me" is perfect for you. Trust me on that one.
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impressed. Maybe that's not entirely true, but whatever. What I want to say right now, is that I was extremely impressed by "When You Reach Me." It's rare that I want to read a book as badly as I wanted this one, and it's even rarer that a book I want that much exceeds my expectations.I could tell you right now what to expect out of this book, but I have a feeling that just giving you a brief description of what happens in it wouldn't do it justice. There's a whole lot going on here that isn't even mentioned on the jacket flap, and spoiling any of it would be cruel. It really is amazing that the book has so many different ideas, yet it doesn't get overstuffed (indeed, the book is around 200 pages and not a word is wasted). Other authors would pick one idea and stick with it; Rebecca Stead juggles it all, and it looks effortless coming from her.
There are a boatload of characters, and each one is unique and memorable. Miranda, the protagonist, is a very likable girl, easy to relate to in many ways. She goes through a lot of the typical twelve-year-old girl stuff, but remains interesting, intelligent, and genuine throughout. All the other kids are unique as well; Sal, Annemarie, Colin, Julia, Marcus, take your pick. (Yes, I think even Alice was more dimensional than the average side character in a middle-grade novel.) They're all distinct and richly characterized, and the way they all link together is twisty and fascinating. The adult characters don't get a lot of screen (page?) time, but the same applies to them.
The colorful cast of characters alone would be impressive, but there's also that little "time travel" thing going on. I read "A Wrinkle in Time" shortly before reading this book, as I was told it would benefit me (there are a lot of references to it in the story, but I wouldn't say it's necessary to read it first), so I think that might explain why I didn't really find the back-and-forth-in-time thing to be confusing. I doubt other kids will, either. Anywho, I'm not sure if the time travel has loopholes in it or not, nor do I care to find out. The important thing is, when everything comes together in the end, it all makes sense. Pay attention to every last detail in the story; they all matter.
I wouldn't really count this as historical fiction; though it's set in 1979, it feels like it could work no matter what decade it is. A few details would have to be changed, but whatever, the story feels timeless. The details of the decade, however small and unobtrusive they are, feel truthful, and not the "That '70s Show" version of history. Honestly, though, if the book was like that, I still wouldn't have minded it considering the near-perfection of everything else in there.
So, what else can be said about this book that hasn't been said? It's remarkable. I don't say that about a lot of books. (Okay, maybe I say that about books that I talk about in long, sprawling reviews like this, but I wouldn't write so much about them if I didn't like them so much.) It is very, very deserving of awards recognition come January 18th. I will be rooting for it, as I have read most of its competitors and, though I liked them, they don't compare. This is really something else, and no matter what kind of book you like, "When You Reach Me" is perfect for you. Trust me on that one.
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LibraryThing member kedwards1991
I really liked this book but I didn't really understand the subtle details in it until I finished the book, which ties into the books mystery in which the author encourages to figure out the mystery along with the character. It really made me think, which I like that a book geared for young readers
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was able to do. The themes in the book pertaining to race, social class and friendship teach the reader some importance perspectives and lessons, also helping them relate to the book. I think readers will also think the topic of time travel very interesting. Show Less
LibraryThing member _Zoe_
I fully expected to love this children's book; I had heard great things about it from several trustworthy people, and it had just won the Newbery Medal, and it had been heavily influenced by A Wrinkle in Time and included elements of time travel. What could go wrong?
Unfortunately, I think I may
Overall, this wasn't a bad book, but I don't think I'd recommend it.
Unfortunately, I think I may
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have suffered from too-high expectations going into this book, because it ultimately left me feeling flat. The interactions between the characters didn't seem real to me; relationships tended to be based on sudden, grand revelations rather than gradual and natural developments. When the main character did carry on real conversations with others, I found that I didn't particularly like her; for someone who had read A Wrinkle in Time a hundred times, she showed remarkably little curiosity about the puzzles posed by time travel and preferred to scornfully dismiss the topic as "too weird" than to have fun imagining the possible implications. And when time travel did make an appearance in the story itself, the revelations felt almost anti-climactic after the elaborate build-up. There just wasn't enough complexity there. I was especially disappointed when the promised explanation for one character's strange behaviour turned out to have nothing to do with the main mystery at all, but instead was an exaggerated reaction to one of those "grand revelations" that apparently determined the course of all relationships.Overall, this wasn't a bad book, but I don't think I'd recommend it.
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LibraryThing member foggidawn
It's 1979, and Miranda is a savvy Manhattan city-dweller: she knows to ignore the rough boys who hang out at the garage down the street, not to talk to the crazy homeless man who sleeps with his head under the mailbox, and to have her key out and ready when she gets to her apartment door. Her main
Every time I read this book, I am impressed at the tight plotting and skillful writing. Listening to the audio version was no exception, and Cynthia Holloway's narration perfectly captured Miranda's smart, youthful voice. This is a book that gives its readers credit for intelligence without seeming at all pretentious, and while I may have its flaws, I certainly can't pick them out. The characters are nuanced and grow throughout the course of the story, the pacing is steady, the story is neither too long nor too short, and there are bonus references to A Wrinkle in Time. What's not to love?
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preoccupations are with school, friends, and helping her mother prep for an upcoming appearance on the game show The $20,000 Pyramid. But then, all of a sudden, things start to change. After an inexplicable encounter with another kid on the street, Miranda's best friend Sal stops talking to her -- even though his getting punched wasn't her fault. Even more mysteriously, strange notes begin arriving for Miranda. What do they mean? Who are they from? What should Miranda do about them?Every time I read this book, I am impressed at the tight plotting and skillful writing. Listening to the audio version was no exception, and Cynthia Holloway's narration perfectly captured Miranda's smart, youthful voice. This is a book that gives its readers credit for intelligence without seeming at all pretentious, and while I may have its flaws, I certainly can't pick them out. The characters are nuanced and grow throughout the course of the story, the pacing is steady, the story is neither too long nor too short, and there are bonus references to A Wrinkle in Time. What's not to love?
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LibraryThing member porch_reader
I enjoyed a number of things about this book. Stead does a wonderful job of weaving together storylines. Miranda, a sixth-grader living in NYC in the 1970s, loses touch with her friend Sal, helps her mom train for an appearance on the $20,000 Pyramid, and tries to figure out the meaning of
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mysterious notes she is receiving. Stead is even able to borrow elements from Miranda's favorite book, A Wrinkle in Time, and use them in Miranda's story. But despite all that, it is Miranda herself who reached out and grabbed me. She is a charming, complex, and pitch-perfect narrator. I felt as though I was in good hands from beginning to end. Show Less
LibraryThing member ldarrow
Rebecca's Stead's charming little book, When You Reach Me, is the story of a sort-of-geeky preteen girl named Miranda (who happens to be obsessed with Madeline L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time) , her former best friend Sal, her new friends, her game-show contestant mother and a crazy, laughing homeless
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man. Oh yeah, and it's about time travel. One day, on their walk home from school, Miranda's best friend Sal gets punched in the face by a kid named Marcus and then decides that he doesn't want to be friends with Miranda anymore and starts to ignore her. She is forced to expand her social circle and this (traditional narrative) part of the book accurately captures what seems to happen to tomboys as they grow into teenagers. Miranda is experiencing the intricacies of female friendship and her first inklings of crush. At the same time, she finds herself caught up in a strange mystery when she finds notes alluding to aspects of her life that would be impossible for the writer of the notes to know about. Did I mention there is time travel in the book? And there are echoes of Daniel Pinkwater (for me at least). Overall, I found the book entertaining and whimsical, not the best I've read this year, but certainly a lovely Sunday afternoon read. Show Less
LibraryThing member jasonpettus
Although I enjoyed this most recent winner of the Newbery Award for Young Adult fiction, it also leads a lot of credence to what critics of that award allege, that winners are chosen based less on how much they please kids than on how much they please their liberal, intellectual parents. And that's
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becuase this novel turns out to be an exercise in nostalgia -- set in 1970s Manhattan, and with a sci-fi-tinged plot that hinges around the classic YA title A Wrinkle in Time, this is author Stead's self-professed homage to the books she herself grew up reading, which definitely makes for an intriguing experience for her fellow grown-ups, but with its appeal to contemporary children much more in doubt. Although it's certainly possible that the pre-teen in your own life will end up loving this book, you shouldn't automatically assume so just because of its award-winning status, a good example of the identity crisis that YA fiction is going through in the early 2000s, as adult reading levels continue dropping and teen lives continue getting more adult, producing a societal blur that's becoming harder and harder to separate. Show Less
LibraryThing member Jordan_6
Probably 1 of the best books I've ever read. My friend read it last year, and when I was at the book store with my new gift card I saw it and I thought I'd give it a try, and believe me it was a great decision that I made. It was very confusing and very mysterious and I wasn't so sure about it at
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first but it was a great book. The ending really pulled everything together and made the book twice as amazing. I would recommend this book to about everyone who wants a book that they would read over and over again. Show Less
LibraryThing member detailmuse
The epigraph to When You Reach Me, a quote by Albert Einstein, is prophetic: “The most beautiful experience we can have is the mysterious” -- because on the very next page, the novel opens with a Wow! that plunges readers into an intriguing story, the mysteriousness of which is indeed a
It’s the story of Miranda’s year in sixth grade -- of being suddenly on the outs with Sal (a boy who’s been her best friend since birth); of navigating new friendships, new social classes, a homeless guy on the corner, and possibly a new step-father; of helping her mother prepare to be a game-show contestant.
Into this mix comes a series of mysterious notes that intrigue Miranda, and freak her out a little bit -- not only because they come to her out of nowhere and from who-knows-whom, but also because they predict the future. Also in the mix are references to Einstein, to science (a teacher named Mr. Tompkin?) and to science fiction (Miranda re-reads A Wrinkle in Time), all of which add layers to the mystery of the notes.
The world Stead creates in this novel -- a reflective tween’s point of view, her friendships and rivalries, her family life and the retro (late ‘70s) Manhattan setting -- are reminiscent of Louise Fitzhugh’s beloved classic, Harriet the Spy. There is less emotion in this novel than that one, but the mystery aspect is quite well done, and positively begs a re-read to examine exactly how Stead stitched it.
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terrific experience.It’s the story of Miranda’s year in sixth grade -- of being suddenly on the outs with Sal (a boy who’s been her best friend since birth); of navigating new friendships, new social classes, a homeless guy on the corner, and possibly a new step-father; of helping her mother prepare to be a game-show contestant.
Into this mix comes a series of mysterious notes that intrigue Miranda, and freak her out a little bit -- not only because they come to her out of nowhere and from who-knows-whom, but also because they predict the future. Also in the mix are references to Einstein, to science (a teacher named Mr. Tompkin?) and to science fiction (Miranda re-reads A Wrinkle in Time), all of which add layers to the mystery of the notes.
The world Stead creates in this novel -- a reflective tween’s point of view, her friendships and rivalries, her family life and the retro (late ‘70s) Manhattan setting -- are reminiscent of Louise Fitzhugh’s beloved classic, Harriet the Spy. There is less emotion in this novel than that one, but the mystery aspect is quite well done, and positively begs a re-read to examine exactly how Stead stitched it.
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LibraryThing member stephaniechase
This book is such a pleasure to read -- and also quite an accomplishment! It is so wonderfully written, with its world so realistically created... and yet it is also an amazing little story of time travel and the bonds of friendship. I loved it.
LibraryThing member ethel55
What a wonderful little novel! Miranda is a bona fide latch key kid who gets to walk home from school with her best friend Sal in 1978 New York City. One day, Sal is hit by a bigger kid on the way home and after that, he doesn't want to be friends anymore. Miranda is confusued, but the puzzle
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continues when she begins receiving anonymous notes. With nods to A Wrinkle in Time and the old gameshow, The 20,000 pyramid, Stead provided a cohesive narrative that made had me paging back to check on previous chapters and wanting to read it again after I raced to the finish. Show Less
LibraryThing member abbylibrarian
It's 1978. Twelve-year-old Miranda lives in New York City, walking to school each day with her best friend Sal and reading A Wrinkle in Time more times than she can count. But then everything changes. Sal refuses to walk to school with Miranda. And Miranda starts finding notes left for her in
Rebecca Stead paints a complete picture of Miranda's life in late-70s NYC. Once I got into the story I couldn't put it down. The setting and time period evoke the books I read as a child (Harriet the Spy, etc.). The narration switches back and forth between present and past tense, but never in a way I found confusing. There are twists and turns and the ending is immensely satisfying. I kind of want to pick it up and read it again right now.
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strange places. Notes that caution her not to tell anyone about them. Notes that seem to predict the future. And if Miranda can figure out who's leaving the notes and what they're telling her to do, she might be able to prevent a tragic death. Rebecca Stead paints a complete picture of Miranda's life in late-70s NYC. Once I got into the story I couldn't put it down. The setting and time period evoke the books I read as a child (Harriet the Spy, etc.). The narration switches back and forth between present and past tense, but never in a way I found confusing. There are twists and turns and the ending is immensely satisfying. I kind of want to pick it up and read it again right now.
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LibraryThing member lilibrarian
Miranda and her friend Sal know their New York city neighborhood inside out, along with its cast of offbeat characters including a homeless man on the corner. But in sixth grade, Sal grows away from Miranda, and she makes new friends.
LibraryThing member 4sarad
I thought this book was a little strange. It throws me when a book is realistic fiction throughout, until the last couple pages when you realize it's science fiction. It was entertaining, and it covered a lot--from friendship to romance to game shows to sandwich making--but it was a little slow at
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times. Show Less
LibraryThing member stephxsu
By the sixth grade, Miranda has learned how to get by in New York City. She and her only friend Sal walk to school together, avoiding the big loud boys in front of the garage and the laughing man on the corner. But then one of the boys punches Sal, and everything starts to change. Sal refuses to
Miranda also starts receiving mysterious letters from a person who knows eerily too much about her life and the future. Who is this person who wants Miranda to write an explanatory letter, claiming that she knows who he is? He claims to know how to save her friend’s life…but who is in danger, and what will become of them all if Miranda either ignores or acknowledges the letter-writer?
Every once in a while there comes along a book that is so unique, so awe-inspiring, that you have to immediately rave about it to everyone around who reads books. WHEN YOU REACH ME is such a book. Rebecca Stead’s second novel is a middle-grade treasure that people will hopefully stumble upon and love all their lives.
My favorite part about this book was, of course, the sci-fi time-travel aspect, which was seamlessly woven into a coming-of-age story set in post-Vietnam War New York City. WHEN YOU REACH ME references Madeleine L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time heavily, a joy for hardcore fans of Meg and Charles Wallace. It also means that it will appeal to about 95% of readers, though Stead’s appeal is less fantasy and more about how seemingly impossible concepts can fit smoothly into our conceptions of our world. It’s not often that you get to read a science-y book that blows away all your expectations and predictions.
Besides for the sci-fi aspect, WHEN YOU REACH ME is also a charming coming-of-age novel with memorable characters. Miranda deals wonderfully with her family and classmates: she’s at that stage where she struggles to figure out who she thought she was in new situations. Perhaps the characters could’ve been developed slightly more, but readers come out of the experience very much impressed, and will have difficulty finding anything lacking.
In short, WHEN YOU REACH ME is 2009’s not-to-be-missed middle-grade novel. Its lovely blend of reality and sci-fi makes it truly stand out, and Stead’s impeccable writing draws us right into Miranda’s world. Be sure to get your hands on a copy of this book in any way possible!
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hang out with Miranda anymore, and she is forced to make new friends and explore different things in school.Miranda also starts receiving mysterious letters from a person who knows eerily too much about her life and the future. Who is this person who wants Miranda to write an explanatory letter, claiming that she knows who he is? He claims to know how to save her friend’s life…but who is in danger, and what will become of them all if Miranda either ignores or acknowledges the letter-writer?
Every once in a while there comes along a book that is so unique, so awe-inspiring, that you have to immediately rave about it to everyone around who reads books. WHEN YOU REACH ME is such a book. Rebecca Stead’s second novel is a middle-grade treasure that people will hopefully stumble upon and love all their lives.
My favorite part about this book was, of course, the sci-fi time-travel aspect, which was seamlessly woven into a coming-of-age story set in post-Vietnam War New York City. WHEN YOU REACH ME references Madeleine L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time heavily, a joy for hardcore fans of Meg and Charles Wallace. It also means that it will appeal to about 95% of readers, though Stead’s appeal is less fantasy and more about how seemingly impossible concepts can fit smoothly into our conceptions of our world. It’s not often that you get to read a science-y book that blows away all your expectations and predictions.
Besides for the sci-fi aspect, WHEN YOU REACH ME is also a charming coming-of-age novel with memorable characters. Miranda deals wonderfully with her family and classmates: she’s at that stage where she struggles to figure out who she thought she was in new situations. Perhaps the characters could’ve been developed slightly more, but readers come out of the experience very much impressed, and will have difficulty finding anything lacking.
In short, WHEN YOU REACH ME is 2009’s not-to-be-missed middle-grade novel. Its lovely blend of reality and sci-fi makes it truly stand out, and Stead’s impeccable writing draws us right into Miranda’s world. Be sure to get your hands on a copy of this book in any way possible!
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LibraryThing member nomadreader
I knew very little about this book when I started reading it, and I'm so glad I knew very little. The magic of the book comes from letting it unfold before your eyes. Miranda is a delightful, funny and realistically insightful sixth-grader who lives in New York City in 1979. Her mother works as a
I loved this book. Miranda is a wonderful narrator, and the story in many ways is timeless. It's setting is 1979, but Stead does not beat it into readers' heads. The time setting is mentioned when it's relevant, and I found myself thinking of the setting as the year I was Miranda's age. Her situation is timeless. The story unfolds from a realistic fiction novel into a mystery and adventure tale. Miranda's favorite book is Madeline L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time, and she looks at the world honestly and with hope. I enjoyed each page, and as the mystery unfolded, I came to love each more than the last. When I finished the book, it stayed with me; the story was still unfolding in my mind. I fully expect this book to get some Newbery buzz.
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paralegal and receives word she has been selected to appear on the $20,000 Pyramid.I loved this book. Miranda is a wonderful narrator, and the story in many ways is timeless. It's setting is 1979, but Stead does not beat it into readers' heads. The time setting is mentioned when it's relevant, and I found myself thinking of the setting as the year I was Miranda's age. Her situation is timeless. The story unfolds from a realistic fiction novel into a mystery and adventure tale. Miranda's favorite book is Madeline L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time, and she looks at the world honestly and with hope. I enjoyed each page, and as the mystery unfolded, I came to love each more than the last. When I finished the book, it stayed with me; the story was still unfolding in my mind. I fully expect this book to get some Newbery buzz.
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LibraryThing member kohlka
Nancy Pearl recommended this book as being an excellent choice for young readers and similar to "A Wrinkle in Time." It was a quick read, but not nearly as good as "A Wrinkle in Time." It is about a young girl who finds out that a man is time traveling into her world, and affecting those around her.
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