Here's How I See It: Here's How It Is

Heather Henson has created such a fun, creative, and realistic book with Here's How I See It. Junebug was such a sweet but strong character. Her personality and love for the theater really shines through the story. All of the other characters, whether it was Thespis, her dad, or the stage hands, really had distinct personality and added so much fun to the story. I really loved some of the supporting characters and wish they had been in the story a little more but, otherwise, I loved everything about the characters. Junebug also faces a lot of family issues, which I felt was a great addition to the story. She handled everything in a way that was realistic to a girl her age while keeping true to herself, which I think is something that is missing from a lot of books. Theater was also a big part of the book. It fit in well, since it was such an important part of the book, but I was going "what?" at times, just because my knowledge of anything related to theater is very little. However, that never really took away from the book and by the time it was over, I can say that my theater knowledge is now greatly expanded. Overall, I highly recommend this one to tweens and young teens. It's another book that doesn't get nearly enough attention, even though it deserves too.

This book is a delightful read for 'tweens and early teens. Junebug is "almost 13" and though she adores her family's summer stock theater, she is feeling a little put upon with her list of chores and wishing (maybe) she could have a bigger part not only in the shows, but also in her parents' affections. It doesn't help that her mother has sort-of moved out and her father is making eyes at his co-star. Did I mention her father has taken on a 12-year-old theater apprentice, and expects Junebug to teach him the ropes? What I liked best about the book: the clever fantasy/reality set up of the chapters (reflected in the title: HERE'S HOW I SEE IT/HERE'S HOW IT IS.) Junebug, Trace and the parents grapple with real problems in real ways, without being too heavy handed. The "backstage" view of theater life. The way Junebug explains theater terminology to readers who might not be as well versed. Plenty of parts to make you smile. Great (sometimes purposely fractured) lines from plays. And now, Anon, my friends. Pick up this book if you desire some fun.

Junebug lives in a dream world for an aspiring actress: her family owns a summer stock theatre, her father is an actor, director, and playwright--she practically gets to live in the theatre all summer long. Unfortunately, she also lives in her own dream world sometimes, imagining up her world as it should be, and is often disappointed by the way it really is. She's not a starring actress; she's a gofer. She doesn't have hordes of devoted fans; she's ignored unless someone needs a chore done. She doesn't have a devoted family; she's left confused and lonely when her parents decide to split up for the summer. And when a boy named Trace comes along to "help out" for the summer, Junebug feels more displaced and confused than ever as she tries to adjust to his strange ways. Here's How I See It; Here's How It Is used a unique setting and format to tell a touching story, making an otherwise fair plot still intriguing. Junebug's character and her relationship with her family was very well-crafted, although some of the secondary characters seemed cliché. (But, then, some actors seem cliché in real life...) Also, Junebug's relationship with Trace and Trace's own difficulties could have been developed further; I felt these elements were secondary to, instead of intrinsic in, the overall story. However, I will be forever grateful to Heather Hensen for bravely setting forth a happy ending, despite popular trends, which was completely real and unforced without the slightest bit of melodrama.

this book pulled me in. the main character is so likable. I loved going on this journey.

At 12, nearly 13, June Cantrell, nicknamed "Junebug," seems to be doing everything in her parents' playhouse, The Blue Moon, except what she really wants. Between supplying sound effects, acting as Prop Mistress, and being the gofer for all of the summer stock actors, all Junebug really dreams of is getting on stage and saying a few lines herself. Until then, she has to settle for being the very best Thunder she can be, and imagine what her life might be like if it really went "how she sees it." This summer's season, however, pushes Junebug a bit too far. Her mother has moved out and gone back to the family farmhouse, and Junebug has no idea if it has to do with her father's new leading lady or not. Junebug's dad has been running himself ragged, taking on more of the leading roles than he usually does, and Junebug's older sister, Stella, can only complain about the measly roles she does have, when all Junebug craves is to just HAVE a role. What's worse is the new apprentice her father has taken on, a 12-year-old boy with an annoying stutter and a strange habit of spitting out random facts about theater history that Junebug doesn't care to know. Although her father has asked that Junebug help him along and show the new boy what to do, Junebug can't help but suspect that she is, in fact, training her replacement, and that soon she'll be even more invisible than she was before. Junebug has always believed that the show must go on, but now, she has no way of knowing which way the show will go, or what part she will play - that of hero, or villain. As one well experienced in summer stock theater, the author brings to life the familial workings of this intimate band of characters. Junebug's plight, emotions, and reactions make her a very real, easy heroine to connect with. Also, I appreciate the way that the reader is introduced to select plays and theatrical concepts without being inundated with boring details, and the material is presented in a way that makes it interesting and easily understandable. Reviewed by: Allison Fraclose