45 pages • 1 hour read
A Handful of Stars
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Book Brief
192
Novel • Fiction
Maine • Contemporary
2015
Middle grade
8-12 years
Super Short Summary
In A Handful of Stars by Cynthia Lord, Lily, a young girl in Maine, befriends Salma, a migrant working with her parents during the blueberry harvest. They bond over painting mason bee houses to raise funds for Lily’s blind dog, Lucky, and face challenges in their friendships and personal lives. Their growing connection highlights the hardships of migrant life and the importance of community and family support. The book includes themes of loss and bereavement related to the death of a parent.
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Hopeful
Emotional
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
6,325 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Cynthia Lord's A Handful of Stars has been praised for its heartfelt exploration of friendship and cultural diversity. The nuanced portrayal of its young characters navigating complex issues resonated with many readers. Some critics, however, noted the plot's predictability. Overall, it is considered a touching and thought-provoking read suitable for middle-grade audiences. Lord, Cynthia. A Handful of Stars. Scholastic, 2015.
Who Should Read A Handful of Stars?
A reader who would enjoy A Handful of Stars by Cynthia Lord is likely a middle-grade audience aged 8-12, who appreciates heartfelt stories of friendship, personal growth, and overcoming challenges. Fans of Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo and Wonder by R.J. Palacio would find similar themes resonant.
6,325 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
192
Novel • Fiction
Maine • Contemporary
2015
Middle grade
8-12 years
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