About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Enlarge Cover
list price: $10.95
edition:Paperback
category: Children's Fiction
published: Mar 2018
ISBN:9781459815742
publisher:
Orca Book Publishers
Description
Through twenty-six letters to her friend Nina, twelve-year-old Kasey chronicles the often humorous observations and impressions of her unexpected, month-long stay in a geriatric ward for the treatment of a rare but treatable bone disease ("osteo-something-something-itis"). Kasey tries to make her life less dull by wearing her own nightgowns, surrounding herself with her favorite stuffies and developing an unusual exercise routine. Hospital food, insomnia and the germy communal bath are enduring sources of dread, but some new (and unexpected) friends make her life bearable.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 9 to 12
- Grade:
- 4 to 7
- Reading age:
- 9 to 12
Awards
- Commended, Ontario Library association (OLA) Best Bets - Honourable Mention
- Commended, Bank Street College of Education Children's Book Committee Best Children's Books of the Year
- Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens
Editorial Reviews
"This novel is an eye-opening experience for any young person facing serious illness or dealing with lengthy hospital stays. It is both compassionate and very informative at the same time. The beautifully written letters are a marvelous narrative device to put readers in touch with the emotions of the main character."
— Resource Links
"Age-appropriate and emotionally satisfying, Hughes's latest novel pulls readers in with its refreshingly original, affecting storyline. But its real strength lies in the author's memorable scenes and realistic prose, adeptly revealing the tender heart and boundless soul of a girl wise beyond her years."
— Quill & Quire
"The well-paced narrative has lovely, intimate moments. Kasey's slow and subtle change into someone who is capable of feeling genuine affection and warmth for her fellow geriatric-ward residents is a journey worth experiencing."
— Booklist
"Filled with wry observations and witty insights, this book will make readers feel like Kasey's personal pen pal…Recommended"
— School Library Connection
"Kasey's observational humor and snarky attitude will have readers chuckling. Hughes reveals in her acknowledgments that she spent a month in a hospital as a child, and she translates that effortlessly for readers, communicating Kasey's fear and vulnerability as well as that sense that she must put on a brave front for the sake of the adults around her…A surprisingly funny look at a subject readers may think is anything but."
— Kirkus Reviews
"Hughes has written a realistic fiction novel that will appeal to many. Kasey's wit and liveliness come to life through her letters to Nina, and Kasey's fears…allow readers to empathize along with her…Hand to young readers who ask for 'sad stories;' this will satisfy their reading tastes and will bring a smile to their faces. Recommended."
— School Library Journal
