Plot Summary

Upside Down in the Middle of Nowhere

Julie T. Lamana
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Upside Down in the Middle of Nowhere

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2014

Book Brief

Julie T. Lamana

Upside Down in the Middle of Nowhere

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2014
Book Details
Pages

328

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Orleans, Louisiana • 2000s

Theme
Publication Year

2014

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

In Upside Down in the Middle of Nowhere, Armani Curtis, a young African-American girl in New Orleans' Ninth Ward, faces the devastation of Hurricane Katrina just as she excitedly celebrates her tenth birthday. Her family's struggle to survive as the storm's impact unfolds forces Armani on a painful but transformative journey, teaching her vital lessons in responsibility and trust. The book includes themes of natural disaster and loss of loved ones.

Melancholic

Emotional

Heartwarming

Inspirational

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

5,125 ratings

83%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Upside Down in the Middle of Nowhere by Julie T. Lamana is praised for its compelling storytelling and vivid depiction of Hurricane Katrina's impact on a young girl and her family. Readers appreciate the authentic voice and emotional depth. However, some critiques mention the pacing as uneven and certain characters underdeveloped. Overall, it's a heartfelt and engaging read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Upside Down in the Middle of Nowhere?

Readers who appreciate heart-wrenching yet hopeful tales of resilience, such as those found in The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate or Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, will find Upside Down in the Middle of Nowhere by Julie T. Lamana captivating. Ideal for middle-grade audiences who enjoy poignant, character-driven stories.

4.4

5,125 ratings

83%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

328

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Orleans, Louisiana • 2000s

Theme
Publication Year

2014

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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