Rating: My bookshelf 

I couldn’t believe I hadn’t heard more about this hilarious and heart-warming gem! A rambunctious little orphan from the big city arrives at a rural island community to live with her gruff grandmother. Moving to a new place and learning a new culture are just half the battle; she must figure out how to overcome a flurry of kerfuffles, understand her gruff grandmother, and process moments of joy when she fears they are a sign she is forgetting her late mother.

Potential concerns:

  • she is a new orphan; I certainly cried several times but it is so honest and sweet I totally think it is worth it.
  • Church is somewhat boring at first
  • Grandmother is often referred to as fat or as having a big jelly tummy.  Eventually the tummy is good for snuggling.
  • Mention of pooh a few times.
  • A few instances with bloomers on the clothesline.