Bloomability

I love reading autumn books in autumn, winter books in winter...you get the idea. Bloomability by Sharon Creech takes place in the Swiss Alps, and the imagery of the sparkling snow-capped mountains and crystal clear waters is breaktaking. Much prettier than our dreary freezing rain in Connecticut. In this coming of age story, 12-year old Dinnie's Uncle Max has just gotten the job of headmaster at an international school in Switzerland. Since Dinnie's parents have had difficulties providing for their family, they agree that Uncle Max and Aunt Sandy can "kidnap" Dinnie for a year of schooling abroad. Dinnie gets to meet students from all over the world, but will she able to overcome her homesickness?

Even though this story is 20 years old, it still resonates with its global message of unity. Some of the global issues back then have not changed all that much. Dinnie and her friends develop great empathy as they learn about the world around them. A scary incident in the mountains keeps the excitement level up later in the story.

This book would be perfect for a sixth grade book club discussion (in fact, that's why I read it). Make sure to whip up some yummy raclette, or at least have some Swiss chocolate on hand when you get together. Analyzing Dinnie's dreams could be part of a thoughtful discussion about the book. Also, make sure to read or recommend other titles by Sharon Creech, such as her newest, Saving Winslow.