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There are currently 33 member reviews
for A Million Things
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Lauri Z. (Washington, DC)
A compelling read: an homage to all of the little girls who are both courageous and compassionate.
I absolutely loved this book! Narrated by ten year old Rae, I became attached to her as well as several other characters (both human and animal) from the get go. We follow Rae's story of courage, tenacity and compassion in the wake of a terrible tragedy. The author's personal experience with mental health issues is the emotional backdrop of the story, asking us to consider the consequences for people, in particular children, left behind when a parent is unable to provide and protect their young. Rae is the ultimate protector of her mother as well as an elderly neighbor Lettie, who becomes an unusual mother figure for Rae. It is not until Rae allows herself to let her guard down, that she can face the sadness and grief, and accept help from adults in order to move forward in her life. I became even more in awe of this little girl as the story unfolded. As a mother of a grown daughter it truly cut to the core. I was so deeply touched by the story that it has stayed with me and will likely impact me for many years to come.
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Ruth H. (Sebring, FL)
Delightful
I so enjoyed this story, it's timing really was perfect! I've recently been watching a docuseries about hoarders so I truly related to Lettie! It's quite devastating to see how hard it is to get rid of their "stuff." Rae was trying to help in the beginning, then realized what it really meant to Lettie. Rae, a 10 yr old, has her own challenges to deal with. A pretty smart little girl, she learns quickly how to cover up her problem. I like her spunk, silliness, compassion and resourcefulness! The way she handles Lucy and Oscar is fun. And, yes, I did cry at the end of the book (which is rare) as my heart went out to all the characters. Such an awesome read!! Thank you Emily Spurr!
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Kathryn S. (St. Helena Island, SC)
A Million Things
This book demands at least two readings. First Reading: enjoy the story of a resilient little girl, a scruffy dog, a cranky old woman, and a remarkable friendship. Second Reading: slow down, stroll leisurely through the sensuous soundscape, filled with vivid imagery. The author puts you squarely into the body of a ten year old girl, faced with an unimaginable change in her life. Sounds, scents, visceral sensations - the author puts you into her body, you see with her eyes, hear with her ears, taste with her tongue. An incredible read!
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Sylvia T. (Rancho Mirage, CA)
Rae's Story
The courageous and determined Rae with dog Splinter by her side won me from the first page. This beautiful story grabbed my attention and I loved the way each chapter was a new day in Rae's battle to stay afloat while her Mum was missing. This debut will burrow deep into your chest and stay there long after the last page. Rae's story of grief, love and resilience is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
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Carol R. (North Mankato, MN)
A Million Things
This book had me from the start as I wasn't sure if the disappearance of Rae's mother was the result of a crime or something else entirely...I was hoping Rae wasn't responsible. The details are revealed through Rae's interactions with Lettie, the odd neighbor living next door, and her daily excursions with Splinter, her dog, and constant companion. Thank goodness for the devotion of our beloved pets and the concern of neighbors, to dig at the truth. It is also a lesson in knowing when to intervene when something just doesn't seem right.
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Jennie R. (Highland, CA)
All the feels...
I fell hard for Rae, the protagonist in this novel. What a strong, smart, scrappy, vulnerable, and resourceful little girl. The relationship that develops between Rae and Lettie, the neighbor with a hoarding tendency, added such depth to the story. Every character in this book, from Rae's teacher, Mrs. Pham, to Oscar, the boy down the street, lends something important to move the story along and continues to illustrate Rae's character. Initially, I felt the ending was rushed, but then it occurred on me that the way the novel unfolded was likely meant to impress upon the reader what the passage of time and the unfolding of events felt like from Rae's perspective. This is the best book I've read so far this year. Highly recommend.
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Susan W. (Berkley, MI)
I Wish I Knew these Characters
I loved this book. The character development of the quirky people who live in this neighborhood is great. They are all very believable; they are compelling. I appreciate the light the author shines on mental health without being preachy. From Rae to Lettie to Rae's mom, everyone's reactions to the people in their lives affected so many lives. Will the trajectory of their lives change, or will they fall back into old habits and patterns? Are "the million things" events, thoughts, memories? I'm not sure. I find myself thinking about the people in this book, wondering what happens to them after the book's end. That is one of a million things that made this a memorable book for me.
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