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Maybe It's a Sign

Audiobook
99 of 99 copies available
99 of 99 copies available
Seventh grader Freya June Sun has always believed in the Chinese superstitions spoon-fed to her since birth—but ever since her dad's death a year ago, she's become obsessed, believing that her father is sending her messages through signs from the beyond. Like how, on her way to an orchestra concert where she's dreading her viola solo, a pair of lucky red birds appear, a sure indication that Dad wants Freya to stick with the instrument and make him proud. Then Freya is partnered with Gus Choi, a goofy and super annoying classmate, for a home-economics project. To her surprise, as they experiment with recipes and get to know each other, Freya finds that she loves baking much more than music. It may be time for a big change in her life, even though her dad hasn't sent a single sign that it's something he approves of. But with the help of her family, Gus (who might not be so annoying after all), and two maybe-magical birds, Freya learns that to be her own person, she might just have to make her own luck.
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    • AudioFile Magazine
      Narrator Jennifer Sun Bell deftly portrays a believable grieving family through the voice of seventh grader Freya June Sun. Bell's brisk pacing matches the short, active chapters recounting the events that take place after the recent death of Freya's father. Freya, a talented violist, adheres strictly to her father's Chinese superstitions and is constantly seeking signs or omens of his posthumous approval. Whenever she encounters what she believes to be bad omens, Bell conveys Freya's anxiety. Bell's youthful voice is well suited to Freya, as well as her often sulky older sister; their mother, who sounds equal parts kind and tired; and Bell's perky friend, Gus Choi. Though the family is grieving, the story's tone stays upbeat as the solid bonds of family and friendship hold fast. L.T. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine
    • School Library Journal

      April 1, 2024

      Gr 4-6-Thirteen-year-old Freya began playing the viola to please her father. Since his death eight months ago, there have been significant changes in her life, but she insists on believing in all his superstitious signs-because that means he isn't truly gone. When she notices two red birds, she's convinced Dad's finally sending a clear message to continue to play. But she also really enjoys creating in the kitchen, even though she's forced to work with Gus, "the most annoying kid," for their cooking class project. Though, maybe Gus isn't so awful either. Versatile Bell empathically embodies family loss and middle school anxiety, nimbly modulating between unsettled Freya and clumsy Gus. She's especially facile switching between teens and adults, her agile narration instantly adding and losing decades. VERDICT Shen and Bell provide a healing read/listen.

      Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

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