Close to Famous
Close to Famous
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2011
Book Brief
272
Novel • Fiction
West Virginia • Contemporary
2011
Middle grade
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
In Close to Famous by Joan Bauer, twelve-year-old aspiring TV chef Foster McAfee flees Memphis with her mother to escape an abusive boyfriend and begins a new life in Culpepper, West Virginia. As Foster navigates her dreams and her struggles with literacy, she forms unexpected bonds with new friends and supportive community members, discovering resilience and the importance of facing life's challenges.
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Hopeful
Humorous
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Joan Bauer's Close to Famous is praised for its engaging characters and heartfelt storytelling. Reviewers commend its exploration of resilience and the pursuit of dreams. However, some feel the plot is predictable and the pacing uneven. Overall, it's considered an uplifting read suitable for a younger audience.
Who Should Read Close to Famous?
Readers who enjoy heartwarming, small-town stories with strong, determined young protagonists will love Joan Bauer's Close to Famous. Fans of Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo or Half a Chance by Cynthia Lord will appreciate the themes of resilience, community, and personal growth.
272
Novel • Fiction
West Virginia • Contemporary
2011
Middle grade
10-14 years
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