  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 05/01/2018 Gr 5–8—When a mysterious letter arrives under the door of her apartment, Emma is sworn to secrecy. This letter contains a $20 bill, a note that tells her to make a list of 10 lucky little things, and the rule that she is not supposed to tell any human about the letter or her list. In her first middle grade novel, Erlbaum tackles death, friendship, peer pressure, relationships, and bullying. In a period of a few months, Emma's life changed drastically. Her aunt (who was actually her mom's best friend) passed away from cancer; her best friend Savvy has started hanging out with the popular crowd; her mom is starting to date again; and the spring play—in which she hopes to finally get a speaking part—is coming up quickly. With so many different subplots, a wide variety of readers will find this story relatable. The consistent reminders about the letter keep the story moving forward and create an irresistible page-turner. This story reminds readers that even the worst day of your life may lead to the luckiest little thing. VERDICT Reminiscent of Tim Federle's middle grade novels, this is a feel-good supplemental purchase.—Kristin Unruh, Siersma Elementary School, Warren, MI - Copyright 2018 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Booklist - 07/01/2018 Six weeks after eighth-grader Emma’s “aunt” Jenny—her single mom’s best friend—dies of breast cancer, an unexpected note appears for Emma. The note explains that the enclosed $20 bill is the first of many lucky things headed Emma’s way over the next 30 days and instructs her to make a list of 10 lucky little things she wants to have happen. Though skeptical, Emma makes the list. What follows is not a high-concept tale of incredible fortune; instead, it’s a story about the normal ebb and flow of tween life: friendships on the fritz, the chance opportunity to be in a school play, etc. Erlbaum’s first book for young readers is freshly voiced, modern, and accessible. A side plot with Emma’s friend whose topless selfie makes the rounds at school, leading to ostracism, rumors, and punishment, feels all too real. Books that speak directly to the experiences of upper middle-schoolers are rare these days, often falling into the gap between middle grade and YA. A refreshingly honest look at the true meaning of luck. - Copyright 2018 Booklist. Loading...
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