Dream by Barbara O'Connor

What worked:

This book is similar to its companion, Wish, as both main characters live in dysfunctional situations. This time, Idalee’s daddy left when she was five, and her mama is leaving for a tour with her band. Idalee narrates the story, and readers know how badly she wants to go along on tour. She has many ideas for country songs, but she doesn’t think any of them are any good. Idalee wants to win a contest and hear her music on the radio, but her lyrics don’t seem worthy of being chosen as the winner. Of course, her old, broken guitar makes everything sound horrible, so all she needs is to buy the expensive, blue one in a store window. That’s why discovering her grandfather’s secret treasure is so important.

Idalee knows the treasure is hidden somewhere in her house; her granddaddy didn’t trust banks, so she needs to search every room before the radio contest ends. However, her mother has rented out every bedroom to other people to make extra money. This creates a moral problem for Idalee, as she disobeys her mama’s orders. Idalee knows she’s not supposed to enter guests’ rooms, but she enlists the help of three friends to conduct a search. Readers are left to wonder if she’ll get caught, if she’ll find anything of worth, or if her efforts will be a waste of time. Readers learn a bit more about the quirky tenants while Idalee and her friends search for treasure.

There are many minor characters, but Charlie, Howard, and Odell are Idalee’s main allies. Readers will remember Howard and Charlie from Wish, and Charlie’s sister, Jackie, is also in the cast. Odell is the most interesting character, besides Idalee, as his father is renting one of the rooms. Odell is proud of his smooth-talking ability, and he uses it many times to distract others. He becomes Idalee’s confidante and loyally offers advice, encouragement, and a trustworthy ear to keep her secrets. His outgoing, energetic personality infuses liveliness into the story.

What didn’t work as well:

The synopsis and cover imply Idalee has a dog by her side, but that’s not accurate. His name is Wishbone, he’s Charlie’s dog from Wish, and he really doesn’t have much of a role in the book. It’s surprising how Odell can influence others, especially since he’s in town for such a short time. It would be nice to see him as a more permanent character.

The final verdict:

This book shares a heartfelt plot that takes place in the slow, laid-back life of a small country town. Young readers will enjoy Idalee’s big dreams and the new friends she makes along the way. Overall, I recommend you give this book a shot.