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Counting by 7s

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2013

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Book Brief

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Holly Goldberg Sloan

Counting by 7s

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2013
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Bakersfield, California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

770L

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Super Short Summary

In Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan, 12-year-old Willow Chance, a highly gifted girl fascinated by plants and medicine, navigates life in Bakersfield, California. After her adoptive parents die in a car accident, she finds solace and a new family with her school counselor, Dell Duke, and her friends Mai and Quang-ha Nguyen. The story explores themes of family, growth, and healing. Willow experiences profound loss and the narrative includes the death of significant characters.

Bittersweet

Inspirational

Emotional

Heartwarming

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

88,376 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan is widely praised for its heartfelt and inspiring narrative, centered on a unique protagonist. Readers appreciate its emotional depth and engaging characters. However, some find its plot developments somewhat predictable and the pacing uneven at times. Overall, it remains a touching story of resilience and the power of community.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Counting by 7s?

A reader who enjoys Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan is typically someone who appreciates heartfelt, character-driven stories about overcoming adversity. Fans of Sharon Draper's Out of My Mind or R.J. Palacio's Wonder will likely be drawn to the book's themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of found family.

4.4

88,376 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Willow Chance

Willow is a highly gifted 12-year-old, the protagonist of the novel, who is deeply affected by the sudden death of her adoptive parents. She struggles to find belonging, and her unique perspective manifests through her interests in medical conditions and gardening.

Dell is a mid-thirties school counselor at the Bakersfield District, initially indifferent and detached. His encounters with Willow and her situation inspire him to rethink his ways and eventually grow into a more responsible and compassionate individual.

Mai is a 14-year-old high school freshman who becomes Willow's best friend. She is mature and quick-witted, often taking on the role of her family's protector and coming up with creative solutions to support Willow.

Pattie is the mother of Mai and Quang-ha, a pragmatic and hard-working woman who takes Willow in after her parents' death. Her logical approach and maternal nature create stability and a nurturing environment for her children and Willow.

Jairo is a taxi driver who has a transformative encounter with Willow. Inspired by her insights, he decides to make positive changes in his life, including pursuing education and addressing health issues.

Quang-ha is a high school sophomore and Mai’s older brother. Initially resistant to change and Willow’s presence, he gradually grows to embrace his family’s new dynamics and shows support for Willow.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Bakersfield, California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

770L

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