Sweeping Up the Heart

A sweet new novel by Kevin Henkes finds its two main characters both annoyed by their parent(s). Amelia’s mom is dead, and her dad definitely does NOT understand her. Mr. Albright(ironically, just the opposite) does not readily express his feelings, either. Thank goodness she has Mrs. O’Brien, her neighbor, a grandmotherly figure who keeps house for her and her dad. Casey’s parent’s are getting divorced and he is thoroughly disgusted by them both. Fortunately, his Aunt Louise is a steady caring figure in his life. The two become friends and help each other to navigate in a seemingly uncaring world. I would recommend it for 4th grade and up.