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The Simple Summary:
Genre: Middle Grade historical slice-of-life
Rating: 4 out of 4
What I liked: Honesty, characters
What I didn't like: Nada
Content: Nada
Just from genre, this sounds like a book I would never think much of reading (slice-of-life, historical). I admit, I'm slightly prejudiced against quieter stories. But, as it's middle grade, it's bound to not contain insufferable content.
And so, I decided to give The Star That Always Stays a chance. Here we go...
When bright and spirited Norvia moves from the country to the city, she has to live by one new rule: Never let anyone know you’re Ojibwe.
Growing up on Beaver Island, Grand-père told Norvia stories—stories about her ancestor Migizi, about Biboonke-o-nini the Wintermaker, about the Crane Clan and the Reindeer Clan. He sang her songs in the old language, and her grandmothers taught her to make story quilts and maple candy. On the island, Norvia was proud of her Ojibwe heritage.
Things are different in the city. Here, Norvia’s mother forces her to pretend she’s not Native at all—even to Mr. Ward, Ma’s new husband, and to Vernon, Norvia’s irritating new stepbrother. In fact, there are a lot of changes in the city: ten-cent movies, gleaming soda shops, speedy automobiles, ninth grade. It’s dizzying for a girl who grew up on the forested shores of Lake Michigan.
Despite the move, the upheaval, and the looming threat of world war, Norvia and her siblings—all five of them—are determined to make 1914 their best year ever. Norvia is certain that her future depends upon it... and upon her discretion.
But how can she have the best year ever if she has to hide who she truly is?
Characters
To sum it up: it was so ridiculously sweet (especially at the end) and the sole reason I want a sequel is to read more about these characters. From sibling dynamics to friendships, it was all so stinking sweet.
From a romance perspective (even though technically there was none), it was a breath of fresh air to have a "love triangle" where the girl is still good friends with both guys at the end. And it's so sweet! (And I've used the word sweet how many times now?)
One thought: what about Herman's wife? From the descriptions is sounded like she was some vixen, yet nothing more was mentioned. Foreshadowing, perhaps?
Plot
The speculative fiction writer read a slice-of life story. And while slower than what she was used to, was able to keep going mostly because of how awesome (and sweet!) the characters are.
Not that this book lacks plot in any way. I enjoyed it nonetheless, with the slower pace and all. And, coupled with the characters, the story has vibe.
To sum it up: it's riddled with flashbacks to pre-divorce moments. The Star That Always Stays keeps readers rooting for a relatable character--Norvia--who tries to keep peace but fears her words aren't doing much. Along with trying to be like the dashing heroines she spends her time reading about, Norvia dons a mask, only to be shunned by the clique she chased after.
Conclusion
All-around a satisfying ending where we get the happiness we crave, and a relatable story nonetheless. Very much recommend.