THE WAY TO BEA

Dianne Down's earnest, enthusiastic narration as Bea illuminates the tumult and excitement that accompany middle school, with its awkward social situations and clashes between expectation and reality. Seventh grade presents a host of challenges for Yeh's characters. With urgency and determination, Down recounts details of mysterious letters, daring quests, new friendships, and the search for a group in which one can be one's authentic self. Her characterizations are spirited and and complex, highlighting the rapid growth and changes that accompany adolescence. Bea may be delightfully offbeat, but her challenges will resonate with anyone who is-- or ever has been--a brave, young soul looking for his or her place in the world. K.S.B. © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2017]