Rosalind Wiseman

Book: Funerals & Fly Fishing by Mary Bartek

I’m always keeping my eye out for books I can recommend to young readers that have a positive message and an engaging story. Reminiscent of the wholesome and memorable reads of Judy Blume and Beverly Cleary, Funerals and Fly Fishing is a first-person narrative of Brad Stanislawski, a lonely, creative kid who is sometimes picked on for his funny name and large size. When his mom wins a trip to California, he finds himself sent reluctantly to spend his summer vacation with the grandfather he’s never met. To his unpleasant surprise, Brad finds out upon his arrival that his grandfather is a funeral director and lives in an apartment about the funeral home.

Girls and boys alike will be drawn in by the not-too-scary suspense, and parents will love that Brad is a likeable character who is struggling in a relatable way with his friendships, his appearance, and the fact that not everything is always as it seems. Learn more about the author at www.marybartek.com.

Recommended for kids age 8-14.