I know I’m not the intended audience for Kate DiCamillo’s latest novel, Ferris. The Newbery Award-winning author usually writes for eight to twelve-year-olds. But, there isn’t any reader who doesn’t need the message, “Every good story is a love story.”
It’s the summer before Ferris Wilkey goes into fifth grade. Her younger sister, Pinky, is determined to become an outlaw with her picture on a Wanted poster. Uncle Ted left Aunt Shirley, and moved into the basement where he’s painting a history of the world. Ferris’ best friend, Billy Jackson, only plays one song over and over on the piano. And, Ferris is worried about her beloved grandmother, Charisse, who has taken to her bed, and swears she sees a ghost in her doorway. Ferris, a rule follower, is worried that this is the summer that everything goes crazy.
With an uptight mother who worries about keeping Pinky in line, and a relaxed father fighting raccoons in the attic, Ferris feels as if she’s the only one who is concerned about Charisse. But, Ferris worries about everyone. She worries about Billy and his father, as well as her fourth grade teacher who taught her and Billy to love words. She worries about her dog who is a nervous wreck. Ferris loves her family, but sometimes they seem like they’re a mess.
I can’t really tell you what a beautiful book this is. There is so much gentleness and love for family in DiCamillo’s Ferris. It’s a celebration of family and life. Or, as Charisse says, “Every good story is a love story.”
Kate DiCamillo’s website is https://www.katedicamillo.com/
Ferris by Kate DiCamillo. Candlewick Press, 2024. ISBN 9781536231052 (hardcover), 230p.
FTC Full Disclosure – I bought a copy of the book.
Don’t we all need to see the world through a child’s eyes from time to time? And don’t we all need some lessons about love, some reminders to be gentle. This sounds sweet and lovely, Lesa. ❤
Sweet, yes, Kaye, but wait until you meet Pinky!
Her books didn’t come out until I was an adult and I’ve enjoyed the ones I’ve read. I’ll have to look for this one.
I read them as an adult, too, Sandy. I love her books.
This sounds lovely. My grandkids might not be quite there yet (7 and 5), but it sounds like I would really enjoy it.
I think you will, Margie.
I couldn’t resist this one. Just ordered a copy. Thanks for introducing this book and this author, Lesa.
You’re welcome, Patricia. I’ve been a fan for quite a while.
I can’t agree with you more, a good story is a good story. I am going to look for it, maybe my grandkids will love it too!
I may never give it to my niece. She’s only 2 1/2, but she’d want to be Pinky when she’s six. Enjoy it, Carol!