When writing about good writing, is it pretentious to use quotations from your own books? Um, yes. Even if one of those books won the Newbery Medal, I believe it's still on the tacky side, Pat MacLachlan. Sorry.

Still, this is a neat little book about the power of writing, why we write, etc. As a jaded adult, I thought it was sickeningly precious, but if I had read it as a kid, I think I would've been inspired (probably inspired to write bad poetry, but still). It's always lovely read an author who can tell a story with an economy of words. Bravo for that, Pat! You did a fantastic job of creating a full world, meaningful character arcs, etc., in so few pages.

But, as opposed to the very kiddish kid narrator of the great [b:Love That Dog|201616|Before & After Getting Your Puppy The Positive Approach to Raising a Happy, Healthy & Well-Behaved Dog|Ian Dunbar|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1172638057s/201616.jpg|195065], the kids in this book are barely believable. They are far too mature and sensitive, not just for fourth-graders, for living, breathing human beings. In fact, even the adults were too perfect.

So this works as a testament to the power of writing, but not, I think, as a great novella. ( )

I love Patricia MacLachlan's books; she is my favorite author. I learned much about writing from this title: the importance of PLACE; A MOMENT, A TIME, A PLACE; CHARACTERS; MEMORY; and reminding oneself "where I began as a child and the stories I brought with me." Patricia MacLachlan is a writer for all ages. ( )

As always, absolutely beautiful. Patricia MacLachlan has a way of putting a deeper meaning on a book that young readers probably won't pick up on, but it's there for older readers, which I love. Also, no one handles delicate subjects in a child's perspective like divorce, a parent with cancer, etc, with as much tact, and delicacy as Mrs. MacLachlan! Highly recommended! ( )

Very sweet. I need Ms. Mirabel to come to my class! ( )

I absolutely loved this book for a few reasons. First, I thought it's plot was extremely intriguing for young readers. The five friends who come together under a lilac tree have their stories shared through flashbacks and changes in point of view. The language is age appropriate and relatable for young readers and also does a really great job of inspiring young writers to try. The central message of this book is to not be afraid to write about whatever you know, everyones story will be different and that's okay.