  | Camp Famous Author: Blecher, Jennifer | |
| Price: $21.88 | ||
Summary:
When eleven-year-old Abby learns she will be attending summer camp, she is excited at the idea of a fresh start, but when she discovers she is going to Camp Famous, a place exclusively for famous kids like pop stars, princesses, and geniuses, her enthusiasm turns to apprehension.
| Accelerated Reader Information: Interest Level: MG+ Reading Level: 4.70 Points: 6.0 Quiz: 516353 |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (03/15/22)
School Library Journal (06/01/22)
Booklist (05/01/22)
The Hornbook (00/07/22)
Full Text Reviews:
School Library Journal - 06/01/2022 Gr 4–7—Blecher's latest is a fun summertime romp with a spotlight on coming into your own. Abby is an ordinary 11-year-old white girl, trying to navigate who she is and what she wants. After an embarrassing incident at school alerts Abby's teacher to possible bullying, her parents give in and enroll her in a summer sleepaway camp she has always wanted to attend. Little does she know that she is in for anything but a typical summer camp experience—she is headed to Camp Famous, where famous kids escape to be themselves. Abby isn't famous but wants to fit in, so tells a lie about being a renowned author. Keeping up the lie and making friends with celebrities isn't easy, but Abby will do anything to make this summer the best ever. Readers will be connect with Abby as the story unfolds. Blecher skillfully crafts relatable experiences and feelings within a unique story arc. Abby is a great example of a kid learning to be patient and comfortable with who she is; growing up can be tough, but being true to herself wins in the end. VERDICT A sweet summer read for realistic fiction fans. Recommended for tween readers who enjoy light coming-of-age tales.—Elizabeth Pelayo - Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
Booklist - 05/01/2022 After a particularly embarrassing playground incident draws the sympathy of her well-connected teacher, lonely Abby is given the opportunity to attend Camp Summerah, a remote summer camp for starlets escaping the spotlight. An ordinary child suddenly surrounded by performers and a princess, 11-year-old Abby pretends to be a famous author with a pseudonym, allowing her to fit in among the camp’s UFCs (unrecognizable famous campers). As the lies build, Abby crumbles, recognizing that “lying, faking, pretending to be somebody different was not the answer.” A second chance from her new camp pals helps Abby realize that being true to yourself is enough to make you special, and genuine friendships follow. Although close readers may pause over gaps in time and superficial characterizations, the short chapters, generous margins, and relatable themes of insecurity will broaden the book’s appeal. Blecher (Out of Place, 2019) delivers a satisfying middle-grade story showcasing the makings of real friendship and the possibilities that await over a summer of growth (even if your summer doesn’t include a royal BFF). - Copyright 2022 Booklist.
