Secrets of the Cicada Summer

Even though I really enjoyed Andrea's previous (and hilarious!) middle-grade book, The Attack of the Fluffy Bunnies, I was a bit hesitant to begin this when I first received it in the mail for review. Thankfully, Secrets of the Cicada Summer proved to be one of my favorite middle-grade books of the year so far thanks to Andrea's rich and lyrical writing and the mysterious, Nancy Drew like plot she provided right along with it. In Secrets of Cicada Summer, Lilly's expecting another quiet and smothering summer just like the school year she just had- that is until Tinny Bridges arrives in her town. Tinny is everything Lilly isn't anymore. She's mischievous, talkative, and the center of everyone's attention. And Lilly probably would like Tinny if Tinny wasn't this close to finding out the secret to why Lilly hasn't talked since her brother's fatal accident. But when Tinny leaves without a trace, will Lilly give up her grudge and help find Tiny? Only time and pages will tell in this addicting, summery read from Ms. Beaty! Lilly was an interesting character and one I could never really read until the end of the story. Throughout the book I was constantly wondering why she didn't talk anymore and every time something new would be added to that long reason why, I was just a wee bit surprised. Also, I really liked the fact that she was a mystery book lover. Because how can one book lover not like and root for another one? Tinny was interesting as well, and was one complicated mess for a six grader, and while I did find her behavior to be a little annoying at times, I also rooted for her to get everything together in the end. Plus, I really enjoyed reading about the rest of the residents in Lilly's town, because each one provided to have their own unique personality that made them jump of the page. The plot of this was fun, exciting, and fast paced, and while the mystery was a little predictable at times, I still enjoyed the overall story regardless of that fact. Lastly, I have to say I really enjoyed Beaty's writing in this one and was impressed on how easily she caught the voice of a six grader. In all, Secrets of the Cicada Summer is a darling read that I can't help but suggest to middle scholars but everyone else as well, because this truly is a fantastic story! Grade: B+

Lily Mathis, from rural Illinois, harbors a secret - something she thinks is so awful she has not spoken a word in two years. Instead, she hones her powers of observation, keeps a low profile, and reads her beloved Nancy Drew mysteries in secret. Until another troubled 6th grader comes to town, and brings real-life mysteries with her. Author Andrea Beaty ambitiously takes her book beyond "just" a mystery, however, with some psychological elements, and family tragedy mixed in. This is a relatively gentle yet captivating read, which may lose readers looking for high tech and explosions, but is easy to recommend to 4th and 5th graders looking for mystery and adventure among old barns and wanted posters and wind rustling through the cornfields in the moonlight.

I loved this. Loved it, loved it. I read it in about a half hour, turning pages faster than ever before, just wanting to know more. I'm sooo glad it's been nominated for a Cybil...Andrea Beaty really outdid herself this time. Lily reads Nancy Drew books constantly, as they are her comfort. She doesn't talk, many would even tell you she's dumb, but Lily is just a keen observer, soon placed in the beginning of her own, real-life mystery. When a new girl, Tinny, moves to town, Lily's calm life is turned upside-down, as Tinny is mean to her, steals her friends, and gets her into trouble. Lily isn't entirely sure why Tinny hates her or how to fix things, but she knows she has to. When Tinny disappears, Lily is on the case, determined to find the lost girl before something terrible happens. Lily is one of the most beautiful characters I have come across in a long time and I can promise you will want to do nothing more than to hug her from page one. This girl needs a hug! She is witty, true, real, and smart, though so many believe otherwise. Tragedy has been placed upon this girl and it is evident she is lost within heartache. Beaty wrote this story in a beautiful and touching manner, which I can't wait to see more of! As I said, Cicada Summer has already been nominated for a Cybil and if I had my way, I could see a Newbery in it's future as well.

A wonderful story which explores the mysteries you'd find in a small town. Great characters with secrets and adventures both funny and heartfelt. I'd like to see Lily go on more adventures in the future. Hope to see more of this author.