Wish by Barbara O'Connor

What worked:

The story is told through Charlie’s eyes as she navigates her troubled life. Her father got into another fight and is serving time in a correctional facility. Her mother suffers from substance abuse and isn’t coherent enough to care for Charlie or her older sister. Charlie has a lot of anger built up inside her, and she doesn’t have a filter to behave appropriately. She doesn’t do well in school and is prone to fighting with classmates. Charlie is sent to live with her aunt and uncle, and each chapter ends with her making the same wish. She uses a different ritual each time, and her new friend points out the futility since the wish has never been granted. Readers will strongly suspect what she’s wishing for, but they’re left to wonder

Charlie is dropped into a world of kindness and understanding, and she has difficulty adjusting to it. Her Uncle Gus and Aunt Bertha, her mother’s sister, are always positive and don’t overreact to her outbursts and bad behavior. They know she’s having a hard time, and Charlie usually feels guilty after treating others poorly. Howard is assigned as her Backpack Buddy to help her get accustomed to her new school. His family of boys could have been a rowdy, unruly bunch, but they’re treated with love and compassion. Charlie is surprised at how they respect their mother and at the close bond they have with each other. The idea of sitting at a dinner table, holding hands and saying grace, and eating as a family is foreign to her.

Howard is a remarkable character, as his cheerful and optimistic outlook provides a perfect contrast to Charlie's. She says he has an up-down walk, like one leg is shorter than the other, but he ignores his classmates’ teasing. Charlie’s temper causes her to say cruel things toward Howard, but he doesn’t retaliate in any way. He suggests saying “pineapple” when her emotions start to spiral, and he provides reminders throughout the story. When Charlie becomes dead-set on finding a stray dog, Howard immediately offers to help and makes encouraging comments. He’s the loyal, supportive friend Charlie desperately needs.

What didn’t work as well:

Not that there’s anything wrong with it, but the story has a strong spiritual angle. Charlie’s aunt and uncle and Howard’s family attend church every Sunday, and the kids spend time at a bible camp. The characters’ faith is the backbone of their positive personalities.

The final verdict:

The book tells a feel-good tale with a happily-ever-after ending. It teaches readers about the value of strong family relationships and good friends. I recommend you give it a try!