Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom by Claudia Mills

What worked:

Calliope, a name from ancient Greece that she’s given herself, is the most interesting character, although she doesn’t always behave appropriately. Readers immediately learn that she’s smart, but she won’t admit that she thinks she’s smarter than all of her classmates, especially Philip Kumar, the teacher’s pet. Readers also quickly learn that she’s a loyal friend when Peggy is late to class and is scolded by the teacher. Calliope yells at the teacher that her words are mean, and she ends up in the principal’s office. She’s aware that she has strong opinions about everything, and she tends to get emotional and loud. Some might say she overreacts or is weird. This problem continues throughout the book, as Calliope tries to understand the wisdom of life. Maybe it will help her make better decisions.

Calliope lives with her grandparents, and they adopted a dog from the shelter to help Calliope with her emotions. However, Archie isn’t a well-behaved dog, and his outbursts create more trouble. His rambunctiousness results in Granny breaking her arm, and Calliope spends the rest of the book trying to keep Grampy from getting rid of Archie. Calliope’s volatile emotions are put to the test, as one more mistake by Archie or her will be strike three; Archie will be out. Calliope also feels guilty for being a burden to her grandparents, and their nosy, opinionated neighbor doesn’t make the situation any easier. Granny and Grampy should be enjoying this time in their lives.

Calliope’s friendship with Peggy and her feud with Philip Kumar are central to the story. Calliope is a serious student and pushes herself to excellence, while Peggy is less serious and enjoys her drawing and artistic skills. Peggy is less outgoing in class, but Calliope is always ready to step up for her friend. Peggy doesn’t always understand why Calliope overreacts to situations, but she still shares her full support. She offers advice and perspective to Calliope and performs a best-friend deed. She agrees to join the philosophy club with Calliope, even though she has no interest in it and knows it will be the most boring meeting ever. Calliope feels challenged by Philip and thinks he’s Mr. Perfect and the teacher’s pet. Calliope hates him! However, embarrassing events and the philosophy will slowly open Calliope’s mind to unforeseen possibilities.

What didn’t work as well:

The synopsis says that Grandpa will have a stroke, but it shouldn’t have revealed it. It doesn’t happen until very late in the book, and readers don’t need to know it’s going to happen. Also, the main characters are in sixth grade, so their philosophy club may not resonate with a wide range of middle-grade readers. The discussions aren’t overly complex, but they will lead to deep thinking and reflection.

The final verdict:

The philosophical aspect of the book and the obsession with ancient Greece may not appeal to all readers, but the author creates an endearing, heartfelt story of a conflicted sixth-grader. Calliope’s extreme emotions result in humorous moments with lifelong lessons. I recommend you try this book for yourself; it may surprise you!