I love it when I find a book that makes me want to write.
Mary Lambert’s middle grade debut FAMILY GAME NIGHT AND OTHER CATASTROPHES did exactly that.
I simply couldn’t put it down. I read it in one sitting – unable to drag myself away. It’s a book that makes you long for a magical fix – even as you know that such a thing is impossible. And it doesn’t take the easy way out. There are no solid answers – just the sense that this family will continue on – sorting out the beautiful mess of their lives together.
Family Game Night and Other Catastrophes by Mary E. Lambert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is everything I love about middle grade novels. Perfect voice. A cast of well-rounded, interesting characters. True-to-life friendships and family relationships. And, best of all, it doesn’t take the easy way out – but manages to leave you with hope just the same. Mary Lambert’s debut it a triumph – mixing real pain with just the right amount of humor to give the reader a heartfelt look into a family trying desperately to grow and change – while struggling to keep themselves and each other together in the process.
For readers:
- A great main character that you can really relate to.
- A true-to-life sibling relationship.
- Sad and funny all rolled up together – just like life.
For teachers
- Discussion about dealing with crisis behavior – helping others and helping ourselves.
- Discussion about family – and how we care for those we love.
- A great example of voice.
